Draft policy endorsed for equitable access to Whittlesea sports facilities

The City of Whittlesea has this week endorsed a draft policy aimed at ensuring gender-equitable access to community sports facilities.

The Fair Access Policy has been developed in response to the Victorian Government’s Fair Access in Sport Policy Roadmap which requires all councils to implement a policy by 1st July 2024.

The policy will ensure equal access to sports grounds, facilities, scheduling and support club culture by providing safe and supportive environments for women, girls and gender diverse people.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the draft policy was important to ensure everyone in the community had access to Council’s facilities.

Wilson noted “the draft policy signifies the City of Whittlesea's commitment to gender equity by creating fair, inclusive, and safe spaces for all.

“In particular it seeks to improve experiences for women, girls, and underrepresented groups to participate in local sport.”

The policy addresses barriers faced by women and girls in sports, such as limited access to quality facilities, substandard amenities, inconvenient schedules, and unsupportive sporting environments.

The draft Policy is open for community feedback from 20th March 2024 to 30th April 2024.

Following the policy’s adoption, Council will work with local sporting clubs to develop a roadmap and action plan to ensure successful implementation.

To view the draft policy and complete the survey visit engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/fair-access.

Image. Credit: Victorian Government