Today, the Queensland Government released details of a $51.3 million financial support package, designed to assist sporting clubs and participants with a range of Return to Play initiatives.
Football Queensland (FQ) welcomes this announcement from the Queensland Government and thanks the Minister for Sport and the Premier for this timely and crucial measure as it strives to protect the state’s most popular club-based participation sport during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The last few months have been an extremely challenging time for our game as a whole and for the entire Queensland football community. This support from the Queensland Government will be a huge boost to participants, clubs and members of the football community across the state,” FQ Chief Executive Officer Robert Cavallucci said.
“After weeks of working closely with the Queensland Government, FQ put forward a strong case as to why supporting the largest participation sport in Queensland will deliver ongoing health and wellbeing benefits by getting kids active again and supporting local communities.”
The $51.3 million Restart Package includes:
For Participants:
- $11m $150 FairPlay vouchers to cover sign on fees for 73,000 children from low income families, including those households affected by job losses;
For Clubs:
- $15.5m Active Restart Infrastructure Recovery Fund with grants for minor works and equipment of up to $20,000 for up to 3,000 clubs;
- $14m COVID SAFE Active Clubs Kickstart with grants of $2,000 for up to 7,000 clubs;
For State Bodies:
- Active Industry Fund providing $10.8 million across 77 state-level sporting and recreation organisations.
“As the largest club-based participation sport in the state, football plays a pivotal role in the health and wellbeing of over 180,000 participants across Queensland, providing physical and mental health benefits while building stronger communities,” Cavallucci said.
“Football Queensland continues to work closely with the State Government and will provide further information on the Restart package and application process as more information becomes available.”
For more information on the Restart support package please visit www.covid19.qld.gov.au/returntoplay
