By Eleanor Wilson
Local kid’s sport is more financially accessible than ever, thanks to the fourth round of the Get Active Kids Voucher scheme.
The State Government funded voucher program means eligible children aged 0 – 18 may receive up to $200 towards the costs for membership, uniforms and registration fees at participating sports clubs.
More than 33,000 vouchers were utilised in the first three rounds of the program, which was first announced in November 2020.
Victorian children named on an Australian Health Care Card or Concession Card can apply for the voucher, which can be used at participating sports club throughout Victoria.
Secretary of Berwick City Soccer Club Sarah Davie said it was an easy decision to sign the club up to the program as a provider.
“We want to see all kids have the opportunity to play sport, particularly after the last two years where a lot of families have faced significant struggles,” she said.
Ms Davie said the voucher scheme is already having a positive impact on families at the soccer club.
“I had one mother come up and say ‘thank you so much for helping with the voucher’,” she said.
“It’s just great that these kids who usually don’t have that opportunity can participate in sport and it’s such a great support for so many families.”
Ms Davie said she would love to see the eligibility of the scheme extended to cater to more families.
“There’s a lot of families that were really hit hard by Covid, so maybe if it could be extended to businesses that have been affected by Covid but don’t use concession cards that would be great,” she said.
“We just want it to reach as many kids as possible.”
Voucher applications are open until 31 May 2022, and must be presented to a provider by 14 June 2022.
To find out more about the Get Active Kids Voucher program, head to getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers/
