- Published:
- Monday 8 August 2016
A simple-to-use online guide will help sporting clubs, councils, architects and designers make grassroots facilities more welcoming for women and girls.
Minister for Sport John Eren today unveiled the Australian-first Female Friendly Sports Infrastructure Guide, which will provide the latest tips, tools and techniques to build or repair sports facilities for the record numbers of women and girls taking to the pitch.
Victoria is the sporting state, and we want it to stay that way. We have some of the highest participation rates in the nation, and it’s women and girls leading the charge. Participation rates are up in football, soccer and netball, and more than 50,000 women or girls play a form of cricket.
But even though women and girls are joining community sport in record numbers, too often their change rooms are out-of-date or non-existent. It’s antiquated and it’s unfair, but we’re changing that.
The Labor Government has already provided $10 million for women’s change rooms – the single biggest investment in women’s participation in sport by an Australian state government – and the Female Friendly Sports Infrastructure Guide is giving clubs and communities more opportunities to grow.
The guidelines are a must-have for clubs, councils and communities embarking on infrastructure upgrades that are equal for everyone. They focus on three key areas: Facility Planning and Design, Maximising Use and Policy to Drive Change.
Everyone should reap the rewards of a healthy and active lifestyle. The Labor Government’s $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure is helping communities update tired grounds and facilities, so Victorians of all ages and ability can do just that.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
“There are more Victorian women and girls playing grassroots sport than ever before, but too often their facilities are rundown or non-existent. We’re fixing that.”
“The Female Friendly Sports Infrastructure Guide puts the power in the hands of clubs, councils builders and architects to make a big difference Victorians.”
“Victoria is the sporting state, but it doesn’t happen by chance. We want everyone to enjoy the benefits of sport and recreation.”