Sports Voucher boost for Northern Territory students

An expanded Sports Vouchers Scheme is being rolled out to students in the Northern Territory.

Introducing the scheme, Northern Territory Chief Minister Adam Giles explained “Sports Vouchers are a key way my Government is helping to drive down the cost of living for Territory families.

“We’ve more than doubled the popular $75 Sports Vouchers to a total of $200 per year per child which is great news for the family budget.

“A $100 voucher will be issued to parents twice a year, at the beginning of Semester two in July and Semester one in January.

“Every school-aged child will receive their first $100 Sports Voucher at school this week, after the popular scheme received a $5 million boost in the 2014 Budget.

“I encourage parents to keep an eye out for the new green $100 Vouchers which will be handed to children during school this week.”

As part of the $5 million Sports Vouchers expansion more sport, recreation, cultural and arts activities are now covered by the scheme.”

During a visit to the Rock Centre, Chief Minister Giles added “it’s great to see recreation activities like rock climbing have already signed up to the new scheme.

“Now there is even more choice for families and their children to stay healthy and active with arts and cultural groups like Browns Mart Theatre, Life Be In It and Corrugated Iron Youth Arts also quick to register for the new scheme.

“We know the cost of registering children for sport and recreation activities can often be expensive and every little bit of assistance helps. Our expanded Sports Vouchers will mean a typical Territory family is $400 better off each year.”

Parliamentary Secretary and Member for Daly Gary Higgins said the Sports Vouchers are available for every enrolled, school-aged child across the Territory from preschool to Year 12 in both government and non-government schools.

Minister Higgins added “the $100 Sport Vouchers can be used for registration, essential equipment and uniform costs at any registered sporting or recreation club, group or organisation.

“Children in remote areas will also benefit from the scheme. Sports Voucher funding is allocated directly to remote schools per enrolled student to use on new sport, recreation or cultural programs and activities. I know these vouchers will be welcomed by both parents and schools.”

For more information contact 1800 045 678, www.sportvoucher.nt.gov.au.

23rd April 2014 - NORTHERN TERRITORY GOVERNMENT EXTENDS SPORTS VOUCHER SCHEME