$1 Million to Help National Sporting Codes Prevent Violence

Minister for Social Services Kevin Andrews says the money will establish a sports grants bank from which national sporting codes can fund violence prevention activities.

“This bank will be managed by Our Watch, the foundation created to help prevent violence against women and children and which will identify priorities for the funding,” he said.

“This follows the success of the Government’s previous engagement with the AFL, NRL and Netball Australia to promote respectful relationships and prevent violence.”

Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women, Senator Michaelia Cash said the grants bank underlines the Government’s commitment to preventing domestic violence as outlined in the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010-2022.

“This grants bank is part of the Australian Government’s $100 million commitment over the next four years under the National Plan’s Second Action Plan to support key infrastructure and policy initiatives to keep women safe,” Minister Cash said.

“This plan reinforces the message from all Australian Governments that violence against women and their children is never acceptable.”

Our Watch Chair, Ms Natasha Stott Despoja AM, said the organisation looks forward to helping sporting clubs and codes to contribute to prevention of violence against women through its unique and influential position in the community.

“Positive elements and values within sport, such as participation and ‘fair play’ can extend to the promotion of respectful relationships, gender equity, inclusion and non-violence.”

“Sporting clubs and organisations bring together large numbers of people and are a ready-made environment that promote women’s participation and opportunities, and that eliminate sexism, discrimination and violence-supportive attitudes,” she said.