Following the success of the 2024 Paralympics the state government is giving Victorians with a disability more opportunity to participate in sport.
On Wednesday, Community Sport Minister Ros Spence announced applications were open for the new Regional All Abilities Participation Grants.
Aimed at increasing opportunities for people with a disability in regional Victoria to get involved in sport, grants of up to $25,000 are available in three categories: equipment and travel, inclusion workforce, and programs and disability-led initiatives.
The grants can be used to purchase specialised or modified equipment and uniforms, such as lowered basketball hoops, adapted balls, weighted vests, compression wear and eye shades.
The money can also be used to buy speech generating devices, markers, raised line paint, auditory goal indicators, adjustable goals, throwing frames, starting lights and other technology that will get more people in the game.
For clubs that already have the necessary equipment and uniforms, grant money can be used to subsidise wages or salaries of disability sports coaches, support workers or volunteers keen to broaden their skillset.
“The Paralympics gave us some very inspiring moments, and we’re keen to keep that momentum going by creating more pathways for people of all abilities to get involved in the sports they love,” said Ms Spence in announcing the grants.
“We’re keen to back initiatives that increase opportunities for all Victorians, whether that is on field playing or off field as instructors, coaches, volunteers or administrators.”
For more information and to apply, visit: sport.vic.gov.au/funding.
