The Victorian Government is backing even more budding Matildas and Socceroos, investing in community football infrastructure across the state. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence has opened the 2021-22 World Game Facilities Fund, kicking in $20 million for community football infrastructure. “Football is more than a game and we’re making sure men and women and girls and boys of all ages and abilities have the facilities to play the sport they love.” Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence commented.
“Pre-pandemic, Victoria was leading the pack when it came to grassroots football participation, especially among women and girls. Initiatives like this give Victorians even more reason to come back to the game in record numbers.” Football Victoria CEO Kimon Taliadoros commented.
Minister Spence said that this round continues support for new and redeveloped infrastructure projects by providing up to $500,000 to local councils and alpine resort boards to deliver shovel-ready projects including sports lighting, new pitches and female friendly change rooms. The Minister went on to explain that funded projects from the 2020-21 round include $500,000 for a new satellite pavilion at the home of Box Hill United Pythagoras Soccer Club at Sparks West Reserve and $500,000 for two new pitches with 100 lux LED lighting at the home of Bacchus Marsh Soccer Club at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Recreation Reserve. The Government also contributed $420,000 towards a new competition ground with 100 lux lighting at the home of Mt Eliza Soccer Club – Emil Madsen Reserve.
“These new facilities will allow the club to grow female participation and have its training and matches at the one venue – it’s a terrific boost for the local community.” Mt Eliza Soccer Club President Justin Sheppard commented.
Minister Spence said that since 2018, the fund has invested $13.2 million for 48 game-changing infrastructure projects across Victoria with a total project value of more than $41 million. With Australia to co-host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, the fund provides a valuable injection for grassroots football clubs to replace ageing facilities and attract more locals keen to emulate their home-grown heroes. The Minister added that this initiative is part of the Government’s work to boost sport and active recreation, gender equality, encourage active lifestyles and create jobs – making a real difference in local communities. The Government has invested more than $1.1 billion in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.
