The extension of the Liberal and Nationals Government’s popular Sporting Schools program will see more children across Indi participate in free sports activities.
Nationals Senator for Victoria, Bridget McKenzie, said the Sporting Schools program is the Liberal and Nationals Government’s largest investment to help Australian kids stay physically active.
The $79.6 million extension to the end of 2024 was announced as part of the Government’s $155 million 2022-23 Federal Budget package for sports.
In 2021, more than 500,000 students participated in the program each term, with more than 2 million students taking part in Sporting Schools across the year.
“This is a decade-long commitment from the Government to ensure children in Indi have the opportunity to be involved in sport, free of charge,” Senator McKenzie said.
“Sport provides a range of physical, mental and social benefits to Australians, and we are committed to ensuring children can live active and healthy lives.”
The program helps schools provide high-quality, inclusive, and diverse sporting activities to primary school students and Year 7 and 8 students.
Minister for Sport Richard Colbeck said the extension of the Sporting Schools program would inspire the next generation of kids to play a variety of different sports they may not otherwise consider.
“Sport Australia’s national AusPlay survey shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a significant decrease in children’s participation in organised sport,” Minister Colbeck said.
“This renewed investment will help us bring more schools and sports together to get Aussie children active and build skills in a sport they enjoy.”
To learn more about Sporting Schools visit www.sportaus.gov.au/schools/
Media contact:
Senator McKenzie: Chris Williams | (02) 6024 2560