Council has committed a funding co-contribution of $200,000 towards the development of new female friendly change rooms at Hamlyn Park.
The funding pledge is part of Council's application for a $1.5 million grant from the Australian Government's 2024-25 Play Our Way program under the Facilities stream.
The grants program aims to promote equitable access and build more suitable facilities that engage women and girls in sport and physical activity throughout their lives.
Following consultation and reviews of Council strategies, masterplans and priority projects, the City's assessment found the $1.7 million project meets the criteria. Applications close on Monday 29 April.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
Council is thrilled to back this worthy project through an application to Play Our Way.We've heard loud and clear that the Bell Park Dragons are in need of better female friendly change rooms for the growing club.
We are committing to a co-contribution of $200,000 and hope to secure the remaining $1.5 million that's needed from the Australian Government's Play Our Way program.
New changerooms will make a big difference to the club and provide a morale boost.
Councillor Eddy Kontelj, chair of the Active Spaces portfolio
It is important to make sure sporting facilities were accessible to females of all ages.Bell Park is a proud and passionate working-class club, and they have been patient in waiting for this much-needed infrastructure.
There are no gender-neutral amenities at Hamlyn Park for the hundreds of female athletes across football, netball, all-abilities and cricket, which has to be rectified.
We know that sport improves self-esteem, fitness and mental health outcomes for women and girls, which makes this a priority sporting and community project.
I am grateful to my fellow Councillors for voting in favour of applying to the federal government for this grant.
Council's $200,000 funding commitment for Hamlyn Park Reserve is contingent on a successful grant application.
The Play Our Way program also has a Participation and Equipment stream which supports grassroots initiatives for women and girls.
Local clubs are eligible to apply for the Play Our Way grant and can request a letter of support from the City to assist their application.
