Female Inclusion in Sport Grant Program

30/03/202101/04/2021 Sen 92 Views 0 Comments females in sports, girls who can, grant for females in sport, grants

The Sporting field is often regarded as a space where differences are put aside in the pursuit of fair play and “having a go”. But when it comes to fairness, statistics show that women and girls are underrepresented in sport, both as players and leaders. In fact, only half of Victorian women are sufficiently active.

Grants of up to $3,000 (ex GST) are available to support local sporting clubs to undertake projects that are accessible and safe for women and girls from all experiences and backgrounds and create a positive impact or breakdown barriers for participation (as players, coaches, umpires and in leadership roles).

Women and girls experience many barriers that make participating in physical activity difficult. These barriers are varied and sometimes complex, however we know that gender inequity is at the basis. With growing research, we now have a clearer understanding of the barriers and approaches that support women and girls to engage in physical activity.

Key Dates

Applications open	8 February 2021
Applications close	31 May 2021 or when funds are exhausted, whichever is earlier
Applicant’s notified of outcome	Approximately 6 weeks after submission*
Gender Equity Workshop	TBC
Female Inclusion in Sport Online Support Sessions	April, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec & Feb
Acquittal due date	12 months after successful outcome notification

* Applications will be assessed at the start of each month (April – June) and applicants notified of the outcome of their application shortly thereafter.

Research from VicHealth’s ‘This Girl Can’ campaign found two in five women feel embarrassed exercising in public, and one in three believe sporting clubs are not welcoming to them. This is despite most clubs believing they are welcoming and provide a sense of community and belonging.

The Victorian Government’s independent inquiry into Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation shed a light on the prevalence of gender inequality in sport and recreation. The overwhelming finding was that women are underrepresented in leadership roles and that sport is still predominantly male- centric. It was also evident that a growing movement of women and girls are keen to showcase their talents and contribute, but the opportunities to lead or participate are not readily available to them. With 98% of Victorians expecting that their local community sporting clubs provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for women and girls, it’s safe to say that sports clubs have an important role in levelling the playing field and committee rooms.

Sport plays a significant role in our national identity, with sports clubs considered important social institutions where community attitudes and behaviour norms are shaped, so it is crucial that they are places of inclusion and equality.

It is important that sports clubs use their influence to advocate for respect, gender equality, inclusion and non-violence on and off the field.