Female sporting teams across regional NSW will benefit from new and improved facilities and regional towns will soon see even more investment in community infrastructure and programs that will make a big difference to everyday life in the bush, thanks to the $100 million Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said applications are now open for Round Four and communities are encouraged to apply.
“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 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 today to officially open the newly refurbished Scone netball courts at Bill Rose Sporting Complex and announced that applications for Round Four of the Stronger Country Communities fund are now open.
“A lack of adequate amenities, especially for females, can often be a barrier to participation. 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,” Ms Mitchell said.
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.
“We’re supporting female athletes of all ages and backgrounds to participate in sport, from grassroots to elite level and the Stronger Country Communities Fund is all about building a safer, stronger NSW for everyone.”
The Stronger Country Communities fund is part of the NSW Government’s $2 billion Regional Growth Fund. Applications for Round Four open 1 May 2021 and close on 25 June 2021. For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/SCCF