Community sports volunteers in regional Victoria are getting some well-deserved support, thanks to a new initiative by the Allan Labor Government. Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence, recently revealed that 12 organisations have successfully received grants from the Sustainable Volunteer Workforce Program, aimed at upskilling volunteers and staff in various sports sectors.
Tennis Victoria is one of the recipients, with its grant funding set to lighten the load for local club administrators. The initiative will allow volunteers to focus more on running their programs and engaging the community, instead of being bogged down by paperwork.
Netball Victoria is also in the spotlight, using the grant to develop an education program that equips volunteers with essential administrative and workplace skills. By improving internal operations, the organisation aims to ensure a smoother experience for both players and volunteers alike.
In Ballarat, Sports Central is directing its efforts towards empowering women and girls. The organisation will offer professional development, networking, and mentoring opportunities to increase female involvement in volunteering at grassroots sports clubs in the Central Highlands.
Meanwhile, Swimming Victoria, in partnership with Diving Victoria, has something a little different planned. The grant will help create a new Aquatic Leader role in the Barwon South West region. This initiative addresses ongoing challenges like declining volunteer numbers and the unfortunate closure of some local pools, aiming to keep swimming and diving programs afloat.
The Sustainable Volunteer Workforce Program sits alongside the Strengthening Regional Community Sport initiative. Both schemes are geared towards attracting and retaining volunteers, reducing their workload, and boosting participation across Victoria. They’re part of the broader $60 million Regional Community Sport Development Fund, which is committed to improving local sports infrastructure and encouraging more families and children to engage in sports.
This initiative aligns with Active Victoria 2022-2026, the government’s strategic plan to bolster the sport and recreation sector. By investing in a skilled sports workforce, the aim is to ensure a strong, sustainable industry that will benefit communities across Victoria for years to come.
With these grants in action, local sports organisations and volunteers are set to thrive, providing the backbone that keeps community sports vibrant and inclusive.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
