Labor has vowed to reverse the federal government’s cuts to a national program that started in Werribee with a goal of “including the unincluded”, if elected on July 2.
Reclink Australia, launched by Werribee resident Peter Cullen 26 years ago, offers disadvantaged people more than 58,000 sports, art and recreation participation opportunities around the country.
In 2013, the Coalition government slashed funding for its programs, but Labor last week committed to new funding of $2.4 million over four years, if it wins next month’s election.
The promise follows recommendations by a Senate select committee that the government reinstate Reclink funds.
Mr Cullen said the organisation was being kept afloat without government support thanks to innovation, collaboration and a strategic approach.
“Since its inception, Reclink, with its simple, cost-effective business model, has … transformed the lives of many participants,” he said. “It is a proven model that has great reach and presents an enormous opportunity for governments, the community and corporate sector to be part of delivering positive social outcomes.”
Labor Lalor MP Joanne Ryan welcomed the news of the funding commitment.
“Reclink has a long history locally, but has grown into a national program [with] runs on the board.”
