Melbourne’s world-class sporting venues headline the $84 million boost for sport and recreation in Victoria in the 2008-09 State Budget, the Minister for Sport and Recreation, James Merlino, said today.
Mr Merlino said the MCG, a new State Athletics Centre and Melbourne and Olympic Park would share in $61.3 million for a number of upgrades and improvements.
He said grassroots sports would also receive important funding, to increase participation and help deliver more sustainable local clubs.
“The Brumby Labor Government understands that supporting Victoria’s sporting culture and our clubs is one of the keys to building stronger and more liveable communities across the State,” Mr Merlino said.
“Whether it’s upgrading a world-class stadium like the MCG or providing funding for community facilities at a local bowls club, supporting sports and recreation adds to the liveability of our State.
The 2008-09 Budget strikes a good balance between supporting sport at the elite level and at the grassroots community level.
“We are spending $10 million to upgrade local VFL clubs across the State, as well as a further $6 million over four years for the successful Go for your life program which includes community grants targeting low-income households to eat well and exercise.”
The 2008-09 State Budget builds on more than $100 million in Brumby Labor Government initiatives supporting grassroots sport, including Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation, the Country Football Netball Program and Community Facilities Funding.
“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to deliver quality and accessible sporting facilities at all levels, providing more opportunities for Victorians of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of sport and recreation,” Mr Merlino said.
“We’re also investing in building and maintaining the world-class sporting facilities that help to make Melbourne the sporting events capital of the world.”
The 2008-09 State Budget includes:
