Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has today welcomed the announcement of a government program aimed at boosting female participation in sport.

Mr Anderson said that he encourages any local sporting organisations to apply for NSW funding to help build sporting facilities and boost sports participation within the community.

The main purpose of the Level Playing Field Program is to ensure women and girls have equitable access to sport and recreation facilities as well as fostering positive sports participation experiences for women and girls.

Level Playing Field Program is open to providers of grassroots sports to fund new and upgraded facilities, and deliver fit-for-purpose amenities, like changerooms and lighting.

Projects like these were previously funded through the Coalition’s Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF) which the NSW Labor Government has cancelled.

“There are many projects throughout the electorate that would certainly benefit from funding under the Level the Playing Field Program and my message to those groups is to apply as soon as possible,” Mr Anderson said.

“This funding aims to provide new or upgrade existing sport amenities together with new and upgraded lighting to support more women and girls to train and compete in sport in a safe and inclusive environment.

“Playing sport improves overall fitness levels, reduces stress, increases confidence and helps make new friends which all lead to building healthier and better communities and I strongly encourage sporting clubs and councils to apply,” Mr Anderson said.

Applications for the Level Playing Field Program close on 30th November. Details including eligibility criteria and the online application process, are available at https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/level-the-playing-field-program