Community Services Minister Simone McGurk has presented a $1,320,429 grant to support the development of an outdoor youth space and children's play area in the City of Swan.
Presented to City of Swan Mayor Kevin Bailey and Deputy Mayor David Lucas, the grant will fund infrastructure and equipment for recreational activities at the site of the City's New Junction development.
The grant from Lotterywest builds on a $1 million contribution from the Stefanelli family in June towards a new children's playground in the New Junction precinct.
Midland Oval has been central to community life in the area and accommodated various recreation activities for many decades.
The aim of the new youth space and play area is to increase community connection and participation in the area.
Children make up a higher-than-average proportion of the City of Swan's population, which includes almost 20,000 children under the age of nine.
Since 1989, the State Government through Lotterywest has approved 118 grants to the City of Swan worth a total of $11.29 million, including this latest grant.
As stated by Community Services Minister Simone McGurk:
"It's so important that children and young people have places in their community where they can connect and engage in creative play and physical activity.
"While we have always known the value of community spaces, there is a growing body of scientific evidence indicating just how crucial physical activity is in the early years for a child's learning, development and wellbeing.
"This grant also recognises the importance of families having places to connect and come together in their local communities."
As stated by Midland MLA Michelle Roberts:
"I welcome this funding from Lotterywest.
"I am pleased that at least some space is being returned to the people of Midland.
"These new facilities will provide a great area where children and young people can play and the people of Midland can come together as a community."
Minister's office - 6552 6600
