REDLAND youth will have better access to organised sport as the State Government smashes the cost barrier by expanding the FairPlay vouches.
The Government is increasing the size and numbers of vouchers to ensure more Queensland kids can play sport.
Under the expanded model, vouchers will increase in value from $150 to $200 and be expanded to all Queensland kids between five and 17 years of age.
The number of vouchers for the program has also increased from up to 50,000 to up to 200,000, at a cost to the 2024-25 Budget of $40 million.
The program has previously been means tested, but the expanded version will be open to all Queensland Children aged between five and 17 years of age.
This reflects the Miles Labor Government’s focus on reducing cost-of-living pressures facing Queensland families.
It builds on the $1000 electricity rebates for every Queensland household and 50 cent public transport fares.
Importantly, 50,000 vouchers remain guaranteed to those under the current eligibility criteria of children and young people aged between five and 17 who hold, or whose parent, carer or guardian holds a valid Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card.
The program will be open from 1 July 2024 with vouchers to be redeemed by June 2025, enabling summer and winter sports and activities to be accessed.
Since the program began in 2019, more than $30 million has been redeemed by activity providers with more than 210,000 vouchers used by eligible families.
The FairPlay program is part of the Miles Labor Government’s 10-year Activate! Queensland Strategy to get more Queenslanders moving more often.
Premier Steven Miles said: “My three kids all play a sport and have done since they were very young, so I know how quickly registration fees, uniform and equipment costs can stack up.
“That’s why I’m committed to expanding the already successful FairPlay program to even more Queensland families.
“Community sport is so important to mental health, social development and in developing healthy habits – something I believe should be accessible to all Queensland kids.”
