Funding to expand disability sports participation

GRANTS for sports clubs and community organisations to strengthen and expand opportunities for people living with a disability in regional areas have become available under the second round of the State Government’s Regional All Abilities Participation Grants.

Allocations of up to $25,000 are available via three categories: Equipment and Travel, Inclusion Workforce, and Programs and Disability-led Initiatives.

The funds can be used to purchase specialised or modified equipment and uniforms such as sports wheelchairs, sensory balls, throwing frames, accessible starting systems, modified bats and racquets and other adaptive technologies.

For clubs that already have the equipment and uniforms they need, funding can also be used to subsidise wages or salaries towards creating a skilled workforce to help boost participation – such as disability sports coaches, support workers or volunteers who are keen to broaden their skillset.

It can also be used to cover travel to competitions and festivals, and for clubs to create their own all-abilities sports programs.

Previous grant recipient Intereach, a not-for-profit organisation supporting regional Victorian communities, used its over $24,000 allocation to run two six-week inclusive, no-cost wheelchair basketball programs.

Known as Hot Wheelies, the program gave participants of all ages and abilities the chance to learn the fundamentals of wheelchair basketball in a fun, supportive environment and was hailed a huge win for the community.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said her government wants more Victorians to get involved in the sports they love.

“Creating an inclusive environment will boost participation and open new pathways, whether it’s playing, coaching, volunteering or something else,” she said.

For more information and to apply, visit the State Government’s Sport and Recreation website.