Female sporting teams across regional NSW will benefit from new and improved facilities, thanks to the $100 million Stronger Country Communities Fund from the NSW Nationals in the state government.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro, NSW Nationals Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor and NSW Nationals Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said applications are now open for Round Four of the program.
“Up to $50 million is dedicated to the delivery of female sports facilities and programs, to encourage greater female participation in all levels and codes across regional NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This NSW Nationals in the state government funding will make a big difference in the bush by delivering new and improved facilities as well as programs for female sports teams and is another step towards levelling the playing field for girls and women in remote, rural and regional communities.”
Ms Mitchell visited the Upper Hunter to officially open the newly-refurbished Scone netball courts at Bill Rose Sporting Complex.
“A lack of adequate amenities, especially for females, can often be a barrier to participation,” Ms Mitchell said.
“By improving and building purpose-fit facilities and developing programs, girls and women will feel more welcome, safe and encouraged to regularly participate in sports and active recreation.”
Mrs Taylor said getting facilities up to date, particularly women’s change rooms, will ensure all female athletes are supported to take part in a wide range of sports, including once male dominated codes.
“Facilities designed exclusively for women should be standard and this funding will help women all over rural and regional NSW overcome a major hurdle and feel empowered to play the sports they love with comfort and confidence,” Mrs Taylor said.
The Stronger Country Communities fund is part of the NSW Nationals in the state government’s $2 billion Regional Growth Fund.
Applications for Round Four close on June 25.
For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/SCCF.
