Grants of up to $20,000 to support Queensland’s local clubs to purchase equipment and carry out capital works will open today, delivering further economic stimulus through sport clubs recovering from COVID-19 closures.
The special COVID-19 Active Restart Infrastructure Recovery Fund provides grants of up to $20,000 to help clubs back onto their feet after COVID-19 had impacted their seasons.
Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni said the $15.5 million program would support up to 3,000 not-for-profit sport and recreation clubs and organisations as they return to play.
“Thanks to the hard work of Queenslanders, the Chief Health Officer has been able to ease restrictions and support the safe restart of community sport and recreation.
“Now that competitions are back up and running, we are delivering Queensland’s plan to support our local clubs through this tough, global economic crisis,” Mr de Brenni said.
“These grants will help make up the fundraising shortfall caused by isolation and help clubs return to self-sufficiency.
Mr de Brenni said the funding could be used for a fresh coat of paint for the clubhouse, a new set of goal posts, or even a refresh of the club canteen and bar.
“We’re creating employment opportunities for local tradies to deliver the capital works, and our equipment grants will support the economic recovery of local suppliers.
Mr de Brenni said applications opened at midday today, with the total budget to be shared equally, 50:50, between Regional Queensland and South East Queensland.
“We want to ensure that the clubs that need the most support – wherever they are from in Queensland – can be supported through this Fund.
“The extra support will enable clubs to keep welcoming back members so they can swing a bat, kick a ball, or cheer on their local team.”
Mr de Brenni said through the Palaszczuk Government’s COVID-SAFE Restart Plan $51.3 million is being invested to support recovery efforts in the sport and recreation industries.
“That includes $150 FairPlay vouchers for 73,000 eligible young Queenslanders with applications having opened on 6 July,” he said.
“We have also now distributed $2000 COVID SAFE Active Clubs Kickstart grants to help thousands of clubs switch their lights back on.”
A further $10.8 million is being invested early to the 77 state level organisations and peak bodies to support community sport and recreation as restrictions are eased.
