The Australian Government is investing $100 million to help local schools, teachers and sporting clubs encourage more primary school students to become more active before, during and after school.
The Nationals Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie said the $100 million Sporting Schools Programme was part of the Government’s plan to build healthier and more active communities.
“Encouraging our children participate in sport before, during and after school will deliver significant benefits to their health, boost participation in sport and build better communities,” Senator McKenzie said.
“There are numerous distractions these days, such as computer games, smartphones, television and the internet, which are competing for our children’s’ attention and causing them to be less active than in previous generations.
“We all need to do more to encourage our kids to be more active more often and the Sporting Schools Programme is a great way to start.”
Senator McKenzie said local schools, teachers and sporting clubs could register via the Sporting Schools website, www.sportingschools.gov.au.
The Sporting Schools Programme will be rolled-out from the beginning of July but schools, teachers and sporting clubs could register now to ensure they were ready to begin at the start of term three.
Senator McKenzie said the website had been designed as an ongoing support tool for schools, teachers and sporting clubs, providing them with access to training guides, coaching courses and links to skilled community coaches.
“The website has been developed with the support of national sporting organisations and helps communities create important links between schools, local sports and local sporting groups,” Senator McKenzie said.
“The Sporting Schools Programme is expected to reach around 850,000 students across the country, delivering positive health benefits for those who participate.”
Senator McKenzie said registered schools would also have the opportunity to apply for grants on the Sporting Schools website later this month.
Media contact: Ben Bulmer 0488 747 770 benjamin.bulmer@aph.gov.au