Victorian Government announces unprecedented funding for grassroots cricket

Victorian clubs will be able to benefit from this unprecedented $10 million contribution to cricket with the announcement taking place at the Edinburgh Cricket Club in Fitzroy.

On top of that pledge, there is also $10 million funding for female-friendly facilities at sporting clubs, in which cricket clubs with female teams and programs can work with local government to receive support for specific changerooms at their grounds.

A further funding avenue exists via the Community Facilities Funding Program where major (up to $650,000) and minor (up to $100,000) grants are available for local government to support sporting infrastructure.

Cricket Victoria CEO Tony Dodemaide praised the Government for their contribution to local clubs.

“This is a really exciting time for cricket in Victoria and we applaud the Victorian Government for this unprecedented funding contribution to grassroots,” Dodemaide said.

“Part of our Strategic Plan is to have females make up 30% of our participant base by 2017 and the $10million allocation for female-friendly changerooms will encourage local clubs to enhance their female cricket programs.

“It’s a timely announcement given the launch of the inaugural Women’s Big Bash League and Cricket Victoria’s recent announcement of junior female competition grants to 18 cricket association’s across Victoria.

“An additional $10million has been allocated in the overall fund for cricket facilities, and we are encouraging clubs to work with their councils to discuss any potential facility development projects.”

The Hon. John Eren, Victorian Minister for Sport said cricket was a real winner from today’s announcement.

“Cricket is Australia’s national summer past time,” Eren said.

“Our investment will mean happier players, healthier clubs and a stronger sport.

“Who knows, it might play a small part in a future Ashes victory or World Cup triumph.”

The Victorian Government funding announcement coincides with the launch of Cricket Victoria’s Common Ground initiative which aims to improve the relationship between local clubs and associations and their local councils to maximise infrastructure at the grassroots.

Cricket clubs in Victoria interested in applying for the new grants need to do so through their local council.

Expression of interest forms for the grants can be downloaded at http://www.sport.vic.gov.au and then submitted to the club’s council.