Swan Hill Rural City Council has developed a draft Fair Access policy in response to the Victorian Government's Fair Access Policy Roadmap with the aim to improve the access and use of community sports infrastructure for all people.
This policy aims to eliminate barriers for women and girls, enabling them to fully engage and enjoy community sports clubs and facilities.
Council's Mayor, Cr Stuart King explains "Council acknowledges the vital role of sporting and recreation facilities to the wellbeing of people in our municipality. The aim of the Fair Access policy is to ensure that everyone feels they can fully participate in and enjoy the benefits of community sport. Statistics tell us that in Victoria, female participation remains lower than males, particularly in community sport and recreation club settings. This policy helps to level the playing field for women and girls in community sport.
"We're seeking input from individuals and community sporting groups. We believe the implementation of this policy will result in a fairer outcome for all of us," expressed Cr King.
For Victorian councils and clubs to remain eligible for community sports infrastructure funding from the Victorian Government, a Fair Access policy must be implemented.
"While it's not a requirement that individual sporting committees across our municipality write their own Fair Access policy, it is recommended that Committees of Management adopt council's policy. This is why it is important for individuals and local community sporting groups to make comment on the draft policy," said Cr King.
The draft policy is available on the Council Let's Talk page. Submissions close on Sunday, 4 August 2024.
Council is inviting individuals and community sporting committees to share their thoughts to assist in finalising the Fair Access policy.
