More young Queenslanders are set to make the local team in 2022 with applications open for the latest round of the Palaszczuk Government's popular FairPlay voucher program.
Acting Sport Minister Scott Stewart said FairPlay vouchers would deliver $150 to help eligible families with the cost of sporting club membership, team registration, or on-field participation fees.
"We know getting young Queenslanders involved in local sport or active recreation improves long-term health, wellbeing and social connections," Mr Stewart said.
"Many families continue to feel the financial squeeze of Covid, but we're not letting the pandemic stand in the way of young Queenslanders staying active.
"That's why the Palaszczuk Government is investing in a fresh round of $150 FairPlay vouchers for 2022.
"A FairPlay voucher could be the spark that ignites an elite sporting career ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
"Although not every young Queenslander with a FairPlay voucher will make it to the 2032 Games, getting involved in local sport and recreation is life-changing."
Mr Stewart said FairPlay vouchers would help clubs kick off 2022 with new teams for local fixtures in North, Central and Southeast Queensland.
"From beach volleyball, lacrosse and orienteering to netball and the football codes, there's plenty to choose from to encourage school age Queenslanders to stay fit and make new friends," Mr Stewart said.
"Since mid-2019, more than 102,000 vouchers worth $15 million have helped eligible young Queenslanders get active with their favourite club.
"FairPlay is an important initiative of Activate! Queensland 2019-2029 to get more Queenslanders moving, more often."
More than 1600 FairPlay vouchers were redeemed during 2021 with 170 Scout groups across Queensland.
Scout leader Darryl Bennett said FairPlay vouchers gave more young people the opportunity to experience all the activities and challenges Scouts had to offer.
"Scouting prides itself on being an inclusive organisation," said Mr Bennett.
"FairPlay vouchers help many children enjoy the fun of being a Scout, whilst developing a wide range of life skills that the Scout program offers."
Applications for the current round are open until 23 March with FairPlay vouchers to be presented to a registered activity provider by 11 May 2022.
Parents, carers or guardians with a valid Centrelink Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card can apply for a voucher for their children from 5 to 17 years-of-age.
For families without a government concession card, FairPlay applications can be made through a referral agency.
A list of local activity providers is on the FairPlay website, where families can also check eligibility at www.qld.gov.au/fairplayvouchers
