The Local Sporting Champions program continues to support more aspiring young sportspeople than ever before, with Member for Parkes Mark Coulton encouraging families in his electorate to apply by 30 September.
The program provides financial assistance to young athletes, coaches and officials aged between 12 and 18 attending eligible state, national or international sporting championships.
Mr Coulton said Local Sporting Champions, managed by Sport Australia, is an important initiative for talented young sportspeople and their families.
“Local Sporting Champions provides an important opportunity for aspiring young athletes from my electorate to take part in high level competition,” Mr Coulton said.
“This program helps families to meet associated costs such as competition entry fees, travel, accommodation, uniforms or equipment.
“Previously we have seen young sportspeople from right across the Parkes electorate gain state and national representation in many sports, including athletics, cricket, swimming, basketball, cycling and rugby union.
“I’m proud to be part of a Government that gets behind our local youth in their sporting endeavours.”
Local Sporting Champions continues to grow, with the Coalition Government announcing a funding boost in 2018-19 of $11.8 million over four years. Funding starts at $500 per grant, with additional provisions for longer distance travel.
Minister for Youth and Sport Richard Colbeck said assisting families to engage in high level sporting competition would help meet the Coalition Government’s Sport 2030 plan to help more Australians be more active more often.
“Local Sporting Champions is about removing some of the barriers for children chasing their big sporting dreams,” Minister Colbeck said.
“Sport and physical activity is a valuable part of any child’s development, so this program is a great investment in the health of our nation.”
Local Sporting Champions has already delivered more than $30 million in grants to more than 52,000 young Australians.
Applications for the Local Sporting Champions program are open throughout the entire year, with four assessment periods. To be considered for the next assessment period, applications must be in by 30 September 2019.
For more information on Local Sporting Champions grants, including the eligibility criteria and to apply, visit www.sportaus.gov.au/lsc
Photo Caption: Member for Parkes Mark Coulton with Coalition Government colleague, Bridget McKenzie (formerly Minister for Sport), congratulating Local Sporting Champions, Ella Penman and Dylan Eather, in Dubbo earlier this year.