The Victorian Government has committed a further $1 million to fund the Shooting Sports Facilities Program. The funding was announced this week as part of the 2017/18 Victorian Budget.
The Shooting Sports Facilities Program has already funded 188 projects through the initial $12.48 million program. With club contributions that meant more than $18 million was invested in the shooting sports as a direct result of the program.
SSAA Victoria was the recipient of three $100,000 grants in the first two rounds of funding and several of its branches and sub-clubs were also successful. Minister for Sport, John Eren, said the $1 million investment would “provide further support to a range of initiatives, with specific focus on education and participation opportunities”.
“The investment will continue to supplement the on-going improvements and capacity of community shooting sports infrastructure across the State,” he said.
Also announced in the Budget was a further $3 million allocation for a decontamination project. Current and former shooting ranges are being assessed for contamination by lead and other materials. The funding will assist with environmental assessments and remediation works.
Parks Victoria is also getting a boost, with $31.8 million provided for the employment of 60 additional rangers being factored in to the 2017/18 Budget. New projects will target revegetation, as well as predator control and pest control. The Parks Victoria website will also be redeveloped to encourage people to take advantage of and see all the benefits Victorian parks have to offer.
Also announced in the 2017/18 Budget was a $6.2 million investment towards woman and girls in sport and recreation. This new funding boost will provide more participation opportunities for women and girls and will ensure grassroots clubs are a welcoming and inclusive places for people of all backgrounds, genders, ages or abilities.
SSAA Victoria will continue to investigate how the 2017/18 Victorian Budget will effect members and publish relevant information.
