Sporting organisations in Western Victoria can now apply for funding to build or upgrade indoor stadiums, where demand for courts has outstripped supply.
Gayle Tierney MP, Member for Western Victoria today announced the $22 million Andrews Labor Government’s Better Indoor Stadiums Fund is open, so that more players can get on the court where they want – and when they want.
Nearly 450,000 Victorians participate in netball or basketball every week, but demand for court space has outstripped supply. It means many midweek competitions are forced to run deep into the evening, or players are being turned away from participating in the games they love.
Indoor stadiums are at the heart of Victoria’s suburbs and towns. They are a hive of activity at weekends as budding juniors take to the court with pride, and all through the week as Victorians of all ages and abilities keep fit and connect with friends.
Our investment is targeting the sports that Victorians are signing up to in record numbers. The Better Indoor Stadiums Fund will mean more basketball, netball and volleyball players will be able to get amongst the action.
Sport keeps Victorians happy and healthy and communities connected, and everyone deserves the best facilities. The Labor Government’s $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure Fund is another great program that is helping clubs all over the state build the first class venues they can be proud of.
Applications are now open. For more information visit www.sport.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Gayle Tierney MP, Member for Western Victoria
“We love our basketball and netball in Western Victoria. This is a great chance for local organisations to ensure players of all ages can perform at the best venues.”
“I encourage local sporting bodies to work with councils to see whether this program can benefit them.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, John Eren
“There’s not enough court space in Victoria for record basketball and netball numbers, but we’re changing that.”
“We don’t want young players having to take to the court late at night just so they can have a game.”