South Australian sports voucher program expands to include music lessons and active recreation

The South Australian Government has expanded its Sports Vouchers program, incorporating for the first time, music lessons and active recreation.

Under the refreshed program name ‘Sports Vouchers Plus’, children from Reception to Year 9 are now eligible to receive double the support through two $100 Sports Vouchers per calendar year.

The expansion of the new Sports Vouchers Plus was announced in the 2024-25 State Budget, where $54.6 million will be invested over four years to deliver this initiative.

Sports Vouchers have continued to evolve since they were first launched in 2015 and over the past decade the offering has extended to provide subsidies for dance, learn-to-swim programs, Scouts and Guides.

Theatre Bugs became a Sports Vouchers provider in 2019 when the program expanded to include dance - with the inclusion of music it’s expected more participants will now take part in the organisation’s musical programs, building on the 2,200+ vouchers which have so far been used for participation with this South Australian organisation.

Michael Eustice, Managing Director, Theatre Bugs enthused “at Theatre Bugs we are thrilled about the inclusion of music lessons in the Sports Vouchers Plus program. This wonderful initiative not only makes music more accessible to families but also provides children with an opportunity to develop creativity, confidence, and essential life skills. It’s a fantastic way to support young minds and ensure parents have an affordable avenue to enrich their children’s lives through the arts.”

In 2024, Sports Vouchers enjoyed its most successful year to date with a record number of more than 95,000 vouchers claimed over 12 months.

Since its inception, more than 697,000 vouchers have been claimed, providing $58.85 million to South Australian families to put towards eligible activities.

Families can claim their Sports Vouchers via www.sportsvouchers.sa.gov.au