The Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC) inquiry into the 2021-22 Budget Estimates has confirmed this week a massive drop in funding and support for community sport.
The Andrews Labor Government confirmed it has cut a whopping $257 million towards community sport funding at a time when community sporting clubs need it most.
The devastation of multimillion-dollar cuts comes when the sector continues to brave yet another COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions by the Andrews Labor Government.
Community sporting clubs have taken a huge whack after harsh COVID-19 restrictions that have prevented junior and senior games from taking place for weeks, forbidden families and spectators from watching training sessions and forced regional clubs to cancel matches.
There is already a concern that clubs are fielding fewer teams and having increasing problems securing volunteers.
These funding cuts for a sector that has been so significantly damaged by Labor’s lockdown decisions is shocking. Community sporting clubs clearly need support, not to be kicked down when they are trying to find their feet.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Tourism, Major Events and Sport, Cindy McLeish:
“Sporting clubs in both metropolitan and regional areas alike have been doing the right thing through each of the four lockdowns. With seasons abandoned in 2020, clubs are looking for support.
“It is astounding that in community sports’ greatest time of need, the Andrews Labor Government turns its back and walks away.
“Exercise and sport provide a wonderful physical and mental outlet for kids and adults alike.
“Sporting clubs are a really important part of the community fabric, for people to get together and provides a solid support base. Without it, people have suffered.”
