More sporting opportunities for people with disability
Published: 15 November 2024Off the back of some inspirational performances at the Paralympics, a new initiative is creating more opportunities for regional Victorians with disability to succeed in sport and active recreation both on and off the field.
The new Regional All Abilities Participation Grants initiative is now open for applications.
The program aims to increase access, inclusion, choice and control for people with disability to reap the benefits of being involved in sport and active recreation.
Grants of up to $25,000 are available in 3 categories:
- Access and Participation
- Inclusion Workforce
- Programs and Disability-led Initiatives.
They can be used to purchase specialised or modified equipment and uniforms including weighted vests, compression wear, adapted playing balls, eye shades and lowered basketball hoops.
There are grants for speech generating devices, markers, raised line paint, auditory goal indicators, adjustable goals, throwing frames, starting lights and other technology that can assist with more people playing.
They can also be used to help subsidise wages or salaries towards skilled workforce that will support participation, such as disability sports coaches or support workers.
There are funds to help increase volunteer and paid opportunities for people with disability, who are keen to take on new roles or broaden their skills as coaches, officials, team managers or administrators.
The program also provides funds towards travel costs and the running of all abilities sport programs that are affordable, sustainable, accessible and inclusive for participants with disability.
Organisations that support community participation in sport and active recreation such as local clubs, state sporting associations, disability or self-advocacy groups, and health or disability providers, are eligible to apply.
Increasing and promoting participation opportunities that give more Victorians a chance to participate in sport and active recreation is a key objective of Active Victoria 2022-2026 – A strategic framework for sport and active recreation in Victoria.
The Program is part of our new $40 million All Abilities Sport Fund that is removing barriers for people with disability to get involved in sport and recreation in regional Victoria.
For more information and to apply visit Regional All Abilities Participation Grants.