Media statement

February 2, 2022

Tania Maxwell MP is encouraging community sport and active recreation organisations promoting greater participation by women and girls to apply for the next round of Change Our Game grants.

The Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party Member for Northern Victoria said the program offers grants of up to $10,000 for eligible clubs and groups fostering female engagement in community sport.

Birchip Neighbourhood House in Buloke Shire has used funding from the program for leadership development, inclusive sporting events and ‘Birchip Safe and Well’ to promote safe and respectful sporting environments.

Bendigo’s Kangaroo Flat Football Netball Club last year used a grant to celebrate women’s empowerment in sport, playing a ‘Change Our Game’ women’s round and hosting an appearance by Australian Football League Women’s North Melbourne star Grace Campbell, who previously played with Bendigo Thunder.

More than 240 of these grants have been made to communities since 2018. Applications for the new round can be made at Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program – Sport and Recreation Victoria by February 28.

Ms Maxwell has also encouraged local councils to work with sporting clubs and community groups and apply for Local Sports Infrastructure Fund grants, with applications closing on February 7.

Funding is available for five streams: indoor stadiums/aquatic facilities, female friendly facilities, community sports lighting, community facilities, and planning.

“The positive impacts of participation in sport are well known and sports clubs are integral to the strength and wellbeing of regional communities,” Ms Maxwell said.

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IMAGE: cricket.com.au

“After two tough years of COVID restrictions, these grants present great opportunities for local clubs to encourage greater participation and inclusion.”