
Australia’s Federal election commences on Saturday, with the final rounds of funding and promises rolled out across the week.
Both major parties once again made their commitments across various states, both on and off the pitch, and more broadly for issues surrounding community and national sport.
Tasmania and New South Wales will both benefit further from the Morrison Government if re-elected, while other communities and broadcasters were given promises by Labor.
Labor
The Labor Party will commit $2.5M to upgrade the Kariong Sporting Precinct if it wins government on May 21. Based in the NSW suburb of Kariong – just west of Gosford – the upgrades will aim to make the precinct more inclusive.
While the Precinct is host to many different sporting clubs and organisations, it is also home to Kariong United FC.
Announced by Candidate for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid, and Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, it is an addition to the state-wide focus on investing in female football.
While not funding, Labor leader Anthony Albanese pledged to support local TV and free sporting events, including football events, if elected.
The Labor Party will review anti-siphoning laws if elected to ensure that major sporting events are available for free instead of behind paywalls of streaming services.
Liberal
The Liberal Party announced on Tuesday that it will commit $3.5 million towards the redevelopment of Valley Road if elected after May 21.
Announced by Member for Braddon, Gavin Pearce, the funding would allow Devonport Strikers to complete Stage One of its redevelopment of Valley Road, including increased seating, lighting and pitch upgrades, as well as refurbished clubroom and kitchen facilities.
The funding would be in addition to the State Government funding committed to Valley Road to give the venue the best chance of being selected to host 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup basecamps.
Meanwhile in NSW, it was announced on Monday that $3 million would go to upgrading sporting facilities at Harrie Dening Football Centre and Prince Edward Park in Kareela
The proposed funding will help deliver an equaliser for the Sutherland Shire football community in a state-wide commitment to female football.
The equaliser campaign is designed to support grassroots for clubs to deliver new and improved female friendly facilities.
The funding to Prince Edward Park will go towards raising the oval, sports field lighting, improved car park and playground and fitness space renewals.