The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has questioned the state government’s commitment to a sport voucher program which subsidises registration and uniforms costs for children in need.
After fielding enquiries from clubs across the Latrobe Valley, Mr Cameron asked Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence if another round of the Get Active Kids Vouchers Program would be available this year.
“The winter sport season is upon us and community clubs across the state would normally already be processing vouchers for the children who rely on them to participate in community sport,” Mr Cameron said.
“Three weeks out from season 2024 and despite numerous enquiries, there is no information about whether the vouchers will be available this year.
“Children should be able to participate in community sport regardless of their personal circumstances, and they shouldn’t be excluded just because their families can’t afford to pay the associated costs.
“The reality is that many children in the Latrobe Valley rely on these vouchers to subsidise the costs of playing sport with their friends on the weekend.
“If the voucher program isn’t running in 2024, then it is incumbent on the state government that other financial support is available to ensure children can still play their chosen sport.”
The Minister has 30 days to respond.
