Community sporting clubs right across the state are being denied vital upgrades as the Andrews Government hands out millions in grants to organisations on the basis of political benefit instead of community need.
Government documents reveal that of the 102 community sporting clubs and precincts that were provided funding in the budget for new and upgraded infrastructure and equipment, 77 were in Labor aligned areas, leaving hundreds of clubs across the state without desperately needed funding for upgrades.
Local sporting clubs like Longwood Football Netball Club, Seymour Football Netball Club, and Murchison Football Netball Club are just some of the many local organisations that have long been campaigning for much needed upgrades to their facilities.
Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said local clubs were missing out despite being in desperate need of funding.
“Sporting clubs are the lifeblood of our regional towns, and it is so disheartening to see them be ignored by this Government because they are playing favourites,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Clubs like the Redlegs in Longwood have been relentlessly pushing for vital upgrades to their facilities, particularly to add female changerooms to deal with their growing netball program.
“It is so disappointing that these much-needed upgrades are being overlooked because the Government is ignoring areas without a Labor presence.”
The Andrews Government has not provided any evidence that their funding has been allocated to communities with the greatest need for investment in community sport infrastructure – as opposed to greatest political benefit for the Labor Party.
Of the funding delivered in Liberal or National-held seats, just six commitments of more than $1 million were made, compared to 37 clubs given more than $1 million in Labor-held seats.
Suburban sporting clubs play an integral role in keeping Victorians active, and provide people with a great sense of community. Clubs shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to grow and open their doors to new members because the Andrews Government is playing politics.
