Regional grants expand all-abilities sport access

COMMUNITY sport and recreation groups across Geelong and the Surf Coast will receive funding to expand programs for people living with disability.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said the Regional All Abilities Participation Grants would help create more inclusive programs at the grassroots level.

“We’re delighted to back initiatives that increase all-abilities opportunities for Victorians whether as instructors, coaches, volunteers or administrators,” she said.

“We want to create inclusive environments for people with disability to not only participate but kickstart new opportunities in a range of roles in the sports they love.”

Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, Lara Sporting Club and Badminton Geelong were among the local organisations to receive funding.

The Geelong All-Abilities Sports Club, Freedom Sports Foundation, and Parallel Sports Inc also secured grants to support new equipment and improve access for athletes.

Badminton Victoria, Football Victoria, Leisure Networks and AusCycling will use their grants to grow the inclusive sport workforce in the region.

A total of 88 grants were awarded through the program, which forms part of the state’s $40 million All Abilities Sport Fund.

The program aims to increase access, inclusion and opportunities for people with disability to participate in sport as players, coaches, volunteers or administrators.