Community sport gets govt boost

The Western Australian government will fast-track $12 million in community sport and recreation facilities grants, with applications to open up next week.

Premier Mark McGowan says the Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund (CSRFF) forms part of the state’s economic recovery post COVID-19, helping to expedite projects.

Local councils, not-for-profit sport and recreation or community groups from Monday will be able to apply for up to $2 million in grants, with applications to close on September 11.

The grants will help groups develop basic infrastructure to increase participation in sport and recreation while also creating local jobs, the premier said.

“Community sport is a vital part of the social fabric of many local communities,” Mr McGowan said at the Nollamara Football Club today.

“As COVID-19 restrictions continue to be eased in a phased process, we want to make sure these organisations have a high standard of facilities, while supporting the state’s economy.”

Projects that will benefit from the funding include new playing surfaces, floodlighting, upgrades to change rooms, and ablutions and improvements to sport clubrooms.

Mr McGowan said local contractors to complete the projects would be used where possible, including Indigenous-owned businesses.

Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray said Aboriginal communities could apply for up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs.

"I also encourage the use of waste reduction strategies in infrastructure development," he said.

Successful applications will be announced in late 2020.