Queensland’s new facilities fund will deliver $10 million for community sport and recreation

The Queensland Government’s new Inclusive Facilities Fund will allocate $10 million for community sport and recreation projects to enhance accessibility, safety, and inclusiveness, including for women and girls and people with disability.

The new Fund is part of the Queensland Government’s second three-year action plan of Activate! Queensland, Accelerate 2022-2025.

It will deliver targeted investments aimed at building community sport and recreation facilities that support improved accessibility, inclusion and utilisation.

The Fund will assist in setting the foundations for success in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Since the release of Activate! in 2019, $13 million has been delivered for 26 female-friendly facility projects across Queensland, like new or upgraded changerooms and toilets.

A further 16 sporting organisations recently received funding for improved changes rooms and facilities as part of Round 1 of the Minor Infrastructure Program, which saw a total of 91 projects approved for $16.4 million in funding.

Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick noted “Queensland’s climate and lifestyle mean everyone should have the opportunity to share in the sporting and recreational activities our state has to offer.

“The rise in women’s participation in a myriad of sports has been facilitated through earlier rounds of Activate program.

“As we head towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it’s important we make as many sports and sporting organisations accessible to anyone who wants to participate.

Queensland Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe adds “we know not-for-profit community sporting clubs are witnessing phenomenal growth in the number of young Queensland girls and women who want to get onto a team.

“The $10 million Inclusive Facilities Fund recognises the feedback of community clubs about the extra support they need to meet demand for new and upgraded female-friendly changerooms and accessible club infrastructure.

“This initiative is designed to maximise the rollout next year of shovel ready changerooms, amenities, ramps and wider pathways at community sporting facilities across Queensland.”

Applications for the Inclusive Facilities Fund open in September this year for delivery in 2024.

Image. Female Football Week Logan Metro Credit: Football Queensland