The growing participation of women and girls in soccer throughout the Hepburn Shire is set to receive a significant boost, with two local facilities earmarked for major upgrades.
Member for Ballarat Catherine King announced the funding commitment which targets Victoria Park in Daylesford and the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve in Creswick.
This funding is totalled at $1.2 million should the Federal Labor Government secure re-election on May 3. These upgrades address critical infrastructure shortfalls that have hindered growth in female participation.
Labor Federal MP Catherine King, who has held the Labor ‘stronghold’ seat since the 2022 election has been vocal in her support for women’s football and the struggles faced.
“The current situation where women and girls are forced to use men’s changerooms, cars or old sheds for match preparation is simply not acceptable in modern sport,” King commented via The Ballarat Times.
“These clubs have created welcoming environments that women and girls want to be part of, and these upgrades will provide the facilities they deserve.”
The Daylesford and Hepburn United Soccer Club, which currently supports approximately 150 players including 40 female participants, has been forced to implement membership caps due to inadequate pitch capacity.
The proposed reconfiguration at Victoria Park will deliver two senior-sized pitches, accommodating the surge in junior and women’s participation.
Meanwhile, at the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve, funding will enable the construction of additional female-friendly changing facilities for both players and officials.
The commitment reflects the changing landscape of Australian soccer, with female participation rates continuing to climb nationwide.
Local sporting administrators have welcomed the announcement, noting that inadequate facilities have long been identified as a significant barrier to growing female participation in grassroots sport.
These election commitments would be delivered in accordance with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles should the Albanese Government secure another term.
The need for development of local facilities has become more evident and pressing. Most amateur clubs primary funding for upgrades is through government grants.
Sport is such an integral part of the Australian landscape and the need for fair opportunity for women gains momentum, promises like this hold great hope for people and lasting positive impacts.
As the most played sport in the state and Australia, especially among women, its positive to hear that, like other codes football is getting the recognition and support it deserves.
