The Victorian Government has announced more support for grassroots sporting clubs affected by the state’s recent coronavirus circuit-breaker efforts, with new funding available through the Sporting Club Grants Program.
In what comes as significant news for Victorian grassroots soccer clubs who incurred losses during the circuit-breaker period from February 12th to February 17th, $2,000 has been made available under the Sporting Club Grants Program’s Circuit Breaker Event Support category.
If clubs had unexpected costs to deal with, such as cancellation fees, lost booking fees and the loss of perishable goods, they can be claimed back in funds as part of this scheme.
Additional grants available include up to $5,000 devoted to assisting the recovery of affected leagues & associations, up to $1,000 for new uniforms & equipment, up to $5,000 for the development of coaches, officials & volunteers and $5,000 to improve overall operational efficacy are available in addition to the Circuit Breaker Event Support grant.
The Sporting Club Grant Program upholds the state Government’s dedication to ensuring community sport is an accessible & inclusive space, while providing sustainable sport & recreation opportunities to increase local participation. The latest grants add to the $6.8 million given out to 4,950 sporting clubs since 2014.
Victorian Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence, was enthusiastic on the return to normality for grassroots sporting organisations, acknowledging the boost it provides to local communities and the wider state.
“Sport and recreation plays a vital role in bringing our communities together and improving our physical and mental wellbeing,” he said.
“There has never been a time in our recent history when that role has been more important, with the impact of the bushfires and now the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic putting our communities under enormous pressure.
“Sport and active recreation clubs and organisations have been hit hard, and this Program will help Victorians get back to the sport and recreation activities they love as restrictions ease.
“The Victorian Government has already put in place measures and significant investment to support clubs, leagues and associations stay viable and return to play, however the challenge is significant.”
Applications for the Sporting Club Grants Program are due by March 18th, or earlier if allocated funds are exhausted.
