Glen Eira City Council endorses fair access policy

Glen Eira City Council has announced the endorsement of its first Fair Access Policy, enshrining a commitment to equal access for participation in community sport and recreation.

The Council says the new policy will support it to take positive action towards achieving gender equity in the access and use of community sports infrastructure.

Advising that all members of the community should be able to participate in community sport, Glen Eira City Council Chief Executive, Rebecca McKenzie “when we play together as a team, we increase social connection and benefit physically and mentally.

“We have seen an increase in female participation in sport following the success of our female soccer players, cricketers, AFL players and other sportswomen nationally and internationally.

“We have a responsibility at a community level to encourage and support girls into sport, as well as support the retention of our athletes as they become adults.”

With the Council having upgraded several of its sports facilities such as Lord Pavilion in Carnegie to improve access for female athletes, McKenzie noted “we know our local girls love sport just as much as the boys, and they deserve the same quality facilities.”

The policy will support Council’s advocacy for investment for sporting infrastructure and clubs, Council’s development of community sports infrastructure upgrades and developments, and guide allocation of sports grounds and facilities.

McKenzie added “we’re currently seeking funding to upgrade Mackie Road Reserve Pavilion in Bentleigh East to improve access for all genders, ages and abilities.

“An investment now in our sports grounds is an investment in the community’s health and wellbeing far into the future.”

The Council carried out extensive engagement on the Policy and Fair Action Plan, including targeted engagement sessions with 26 local sports clubs.