Netball Queensland receives government funding to promote inclusivity

As part of the Queensland Government’s new Active Industry Fund, a partnership has been struck between the state government and Netball Queensland to ensure high quality and inclusive participation opportunities exist for more Queenslanders to be active.

The Queensland Government considers the Active Industry Fund as a new way of focusing on collaborative partnerships that achieve the greatest benefit for all Queenslanders – regardless of gender, age, ability or location.

Advising that Netball Queensland is proud to be one of the six sports piloting the new investment framework, Netball Queensland Chief Executive Catherine Clark stated “today’s announcement is a commitment to work collaboratively on inclusion-focused programs such as Diamond Spirit, targeting Indigenous girls, as well as seniors-focussed Walking Netball, that is ensuring our sport continues to build its capability and capacity.

“In a community where 98% of our members are female, we are delighted to see this Government taking steps towards gender equality, from the boardroom to equal pay for athletes.”

Queensland Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni said the partnership with Netball Queensland was the first of many historic partnerships with state-level sport and recreation organisations as part of the new Active Industry Fund.

Minister de Brenni noted 'it’s an important symbol to Queenslanders, especially women and girls, that netball will be the first sport to join forces with us under this new approach.

“Our standout Queensland Firebirds and Sunshine Coast Lightning have been history makers and now Netball Queensland and the Palaszczuk Government are making history together.

“Queenslanders are already keen netball fans and this partnership will enable even more people to take to the court.

“Netball Queensland will be financially supported to engage Queenslanders who may not have traditionally been involved in the sport, including seniors through Walking Netball.

“A new operating model will also deliver efficiencies for netball associations across the state, helping to support local clubs and players.

“The partnership will foster collaboration across industry and government to develop joint initiatives, helping to maximise investment to create a more active and healthier Queensland.”

Minister de Brenni went on to state that the partnership with Netball Queensland is one of the ways the Queensland Government is collaborating with industry to achieve the goals of the Activate! Queensland strategy.

He added “this strategy aims to enrich the lives of all Queenslanders through physical activity and provide more opportunities for Queenslanders of all ages and abilities to be physically active.

“We recognise that establishing partnerships with the active industry will be key to directing funding to where it is most needed.

“The $32 million, three-year Active Industry Fund will see continued support for the industry, including a first tranche of partnerships developed between six sporting bodies from rugby league, Aussie rules, cricket, netball, tennis and surfing.

“Incentivised funding arrangements will ensure our shared goals are achieved, such as gender equity and quality opportunities for all.”

Activate! Queensland is a $1.3 billion strategy over 10 years to encourage all levels of community participation while also supporting elite athletes and world-class venues.

Since 2015, the Queensland Government has committed $13.3 million to grassroots netball programs across the state.

The Queensland Government also invested $34 million in the Queensland State Netball Centre, home of the Queensland Firebirds, and provided $7 million for the University of Sunshine Coast Stadium, home of the Sunshine Coast Lightning.

Image: Walking Netball courtesy of Netball Queensland