Oz looks to push migrant social inclusion through sport

Australia is encouraging new migrants to take up sport as part of a new government initiative to help bring communities together.

Almost AUS$20 million in funding has been made available for not-for-profit organisations who want to help communities promote social inclusion and improve health outcomes through sport.

The program is part of the Government’s AUS$71 million investment in social cohesion initiatives to build stronger communities.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, David Coleman, says that getting involved in sport is a great way for migrants to build connections, improve their English language skills and feel more at home.

“Sport plays an important role in the lives of so many Australians and is a great way to bring communities together and strengthen Australia’s multicultural successes,” Minister Coleman explained.

“So many of our greatest athletes have migrated to Australia, and the achievements in sport of people of all backgrounds is a key part of the Australian story.

“We want everyone to feel welcome to join in at our local sporting clubs and it is important we provide a helping hand for people to get involved.”

The grants are open to applications from not-for-profit organisations including local community organisations, sporting organisations and local government entities and are available to assist the following community groups get involved in sport and recreational activities:

– Newly arrived migrants and refugees;

– People with a physical or mental disability;

– Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; and

= Women.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

– Engaging with community organisations to deliver sport and physical activity projects;

– Coaching clinics to teach sports skills and techniques;

– Participation in local sports competitions;

– Instruction in exercise and physical activity classes delivered by qualified instructors;

– Research and data collection; and

– Recruitment and engagement of translators required to deliver the activities.

Article published 8th November 2019