Program encourages South Australian teens to get active and off screens

The South Australian Government is investing $2.38 million through the Active State Collaboration Program (ASCP) to continue its bold action to get young people active and away from their screens.

Applications for the latest round of the funding program are now open and feature a dedicated $1.85 million funding stream specifically targeting the critical 12 to 15 age group, where participation rates show a concerning decline during the transition from primary to secondary education.

The State Government has pioneered several initiatives encouraging South Australian children and young people to put their phones down and engage in activities that have genuine health, wellbeing and mental health benefits.

The model for the world-first social media ban for children under 16, which passed both houses of Federal Parliament last month, originated in South Australia and was championed by SA Premier Peter Malinauskas.

There has also been a significant improvement in student engagement following a State Government initiated mobile phone ban in schools.

Through the Active State Collaboration Program, delivered through the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing (ORSR), organisations are funded to facilitate inclusive programs with tangible benefits for the future health and wellbeing of South Australia's youth.

Last year's Active State Collaboration Program supported 11 projects, providing more than $1.4 million, where sporting and other organisations partnered to deliver unique and special initiatives supporting the physical and mental health of South Australians.

Tennis SA accessed funding through the Program to develop a First Nations tennis pathways program for the City of Playford partnering with Elizabeth Downs Primary School, Elizabeth North Primary School and Just 4 Tennis.

Debbie Sterrey, Tennis SA Chief Executive notes “the support from the Active State Collaboration Program has been instrumental in driving the growth of our inclusion and diversity initiatives.

“The First Nations tennis pathway program in the City of Playford is a fantastic example of how grassroots sports can inspire and engage communities. This initiative has not only introduced tennis to more young people but also fostered a sense of belonging and opportunity, which is truly invaluable.”

Applications for the Program close midday on Wednesday 5th March 2025.

For more information and to apply

Image. Tennis SA, with the support of City of Playford, hosted the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival – Playford in May 2024.