From blind cricket and adaptive climbing to accessible surfing and walking hockey, regional Victorians with disability are enjoying greater access to the sports they love.

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced sports clubs and community organisations across Eastern Victoria will receive grants to strengthen and expand opportunities for people disability on and off the field.

The Regional All Abilities Participation Grants (RAAPG) provides funding of up to $25,000 to boost access, inclusion and participation. 

It’s about helping more people with a disability benefit from the physical, social and mental health advantages of sport and active recreation.

Mitchell River Hockey Club, Gippsland Lakes Roller Derby, Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club, and Toongabbie and District Pony Club have been approved for funding towards equipment and travel.

Longford Cricket Club and Sale Tennis Club will use their funding to deliver programs and disability-led initiatives.

These grants are part of Labor’s $40 million All Abilities Sport Fund, removing barriers for people with disability to get involved in sport and recreation in regional Victoria. 

For more information on the grants and a full list of recipients sport.vic.gov.au 

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh

“We’re delighted to support more programs that open up more all-abilities opportunities for Victorians – as instructors, coaches, volunteers or administrators.”

“This initiative creates inclusive spaces where people with disability can not only participate – but kick start new opportunities to learn and excel in a range of roles in the sports they love.”

Quotes attributable to Sale Tennis Club President Robin Lowe

”Sale Tennis Club is excited to have secured funding for this important All Abilities Program. To be able to offer a specialised program for neurodiverse children is a first for us and we are excited to be able to extend our reach in the community even further. This is an especially important initiative as there are very limited opportunities in our area to access specialised neurodiverse programs.

"We are delighted that the State Government have recognised the need for such a program and have confidence in our ability to deliver a good community outcome.  We are now working hard to upskill our coaching team so that we can commence the program delivery.”