A Victorian-first scholarship program to promote inclusive job opportunities in the golf industry has been established by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today called for applications for the program, which will provide funding of up to $7,500 to people seeking to build a career in golf - from players to administrators, journalists, horticulturalists, and course designers and architects.
The inaugural Golf Scholarship Program is part of the Labor Government's $7.46 million Supporting Growth of Golf Clubs Around Victoria initiative, with a focus on providing more opportunities for women and gender-diverse and non-binary persons.
More than 300,000 Victorians played golf at 350-plus courses across the state pre-coronavirus. The sport is recovering strongly from the pandemic and is an integral part of many Victorian communities, from city to country.
The program reflects the Government's commitment to health and wellbeing, and boosting economic activity, local jobs, diversity and inclusion across the sport and recreation sector.
Golf in Victoria contributes $883 million to the state's economy and supports 6,900 jobs. The Golf Scholarship Program will enable more Victorians to see the golf industry as a worthwhile, productive career option and drive those numbers even higher.
The Golf Scholarship Program is one of a suite of Government programs investing in participation, vocational training and support for Victoria's community sport and recreation sector.
Scholarship candidates can be nominated by clubs and other golfing bodies, local councils and higher education organisations until Friday, 14 June. For more information, visit sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/our-grants.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
"Golf is tremendously popular and a significant driver of jobs - this program is about providing opportunities for more Victorians to build a career in golf."
"I encourage clubs, local councils and education bodies to seek out people within their organisations who would benefit from this support and put their names forward."
Quote attributable Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland
"We are excited to play our part in the scholarship program and are really encouraged to see so many new avenues open up for those from all walks of life who want to continue golf's momentum."
