Assistance for families getting kids into sport

Round six of the Get Active Kids Voucher program is now open.

Liam McNally

Vouchers of up to $200 are now available for eligible families to get their kids into sport through round six of the state governments Get Active Kids program.

The vouchers can help pay for sporting equipment, uniforms and memberships in a range of activities, including learn to swim classes for toddlers.

There are currently more than 1,600 activity providers registered across Victoria. Clubs, associations, and organisations can register as a Get Active Kids Voucher Activity Provider to be able to redeem a

voucher.

To be eligible they must be affiliated with a recognised state sporting association or equivalent governing body.

Families can also continue to claim reimbursement for expenses already incurred from 28 November 2022 to 10 May.

The government said almost 80,000 vouchers were snapped up in previous rounds of the program, with about half of recipients surveyed indicated they would not have been able to participate in their chosen sport or activity without the voucher.

To be eligible, kids must be aged 18 and under, a Victorian resident, named on a valid Commonwealth Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card and named on a valid Medicare Card at the time of application.

A special consideration stream is available to support children residing in Victorian Care Services, temporary or provisional visa holders, undocumented migrants and international students aged 18 and under at the time of application.

Community Sport Minister Ros Spence said the the Get Active Kids Voucher Program is a “great opportunity” for eligible families to get their kids into sport “without breaking the budget”.

“We know how passionate Victorians are about their sport and that’s why we are providing these vouchers to make it a little easier for families to get their kids involved in the sport they love,” she said.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said the program is a “game-changer for families in Melton”

“No matter what sport you play, the Get Active Kids Voucher Program will make it easier for families to get involved,” he said.

Applications for this round of vouchers close on May 10.

Details: www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers/