Policy Agenda

More Victorians in the Game - Policy Agenda

It is now more critical than ever to get more Victorians regularly participating in and playing sport, using Victoria’s sporting excellent facilities and joining Victoria’s sports clubs and teams whether for fun and friendship or for the challenge of competition.

To support this objective, Vicsport, the peak body for the Victorian sport active recreation industry is calling for a coordinated response from the next state government, led by the next Minister for Sport & Recreation but with commitment from other portfolio areas including health, education and tourism.

In 2014 Vicsport released its Policy Agenda on behalf of its 170 member groups which consist of 16,000 clubs and associations, 1.8 million people playing sport and being active, paid staff and volunteers.

Vicsport Chairman, Margot Foster said, “It would be fantastic if more Victorians were able and encouraged to enjoy the numerous benefits that participation in sport and active recreation provides. More people in sports clubs and using Victoria’s wonderful sports facilities will deliver a healthier, fitter and better connected Victoria. Vicsport looks forward to the support of the next government in delivering opportunities to enable more people to enjoy what so many of us take for granted: the chance to be with others in a fun and rewarding environment.”

After substantial consultation with Vicsport members and stakeholders at all levels of the Victorian sport and active recreation industry, Vicsport calls on the next state government to have the following priorities related to Victorian community sport;

1. WHOLE-OF-GOVERNMENT APPROACH TO MAXIMISE THE BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY SPORT

Broaden the areas of government investment in the health, social and community benefits of community sport and active recreation.

2. STRENGTHEN VOLUNTEERING AND ORGANISATIONAL CAPACITY

Provide direct long term support to sport and active recreation volunteers and organisations to assist them to respond to the needs of Victorians for more flexible and social sport participation

3. IMPROVE FACILITY ACCESS FOR COMMUNITY SPORT ORGANISATIONS

Prioritise regular and affordable access for community sport and active recreation organisations through facility funding schemes.

4. INVEST IN PARTICIPATION FOR PEOPLE WHERE COST IS A BARRIER

Strengthen community club participation through a targeted subsidy scheme to assist those for whom cost is an issue.

For further information, please contact Vicsport Chief Executive Officer Lisa Hasker on 03 9698 8100 or [email protected].