A new $750,000 McGowan Government funding program has been announced to support innovative projects that encourage physical activity.
The Innovation Challenge Program, jointly coordinated by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) and Healthway, will support projects based on community need, merit, innovation and sustainability.
Healthway is seeking applicants with innovative ideas that create physical activity opportunities for inactive young people, girls and women.
DLGSC will work with applicants from sport and recreation organisations seeking support to streamline their business, deliver their activities in an innovative way, and explore ideas on how technology can best be used in the sport and recreation sector.
Projects eligible for funding include the development of a new concept or business plan (up to $50,000) or the development and delivery of a pilot program in the community (up to $150,000).
Applications can be made by incorporated sporting, recreation and community organisations and associations; local governments, tertiary institutions or community-based organisations that partner with a sport and active recreation organisation (Healthway only); and companies owned by a State Sporting Organisation.
Applications will open in early February 2021, with workshops taking place in February 2021. Successful applicants will be notified in June 2021.
For more information and to apply, visit http://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/Innovation-Challenge-Program
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray:
"The State Government is committed to helping Western Australians lead healthy and active lives, and programs such as this are just one of the ways we can achieve that.
"We are looking for new and clever ideas to encourage community participation in physical activity, whether it is a new concept or an innovative change to current products or programs.
"This may include repurposing underutilised spaces, developing new partnerships, establishing new programs outside traditional sport or recreation settings, or using technology, such as digital platforms, to increase participation."
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"Participating in regular sport and recreation is vital for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle and provides important social connectedness with family and friends.
"This initiative aims to boost physical activity opportunities for inactive young people, girls and women."
