South Australia’s Malinauskas Labor Government is taking action to get young people active and away from their screens with a major $2.38 million investment through the Active State Collaboration Program (ASCP).
Applications for the latest round of the funding program are now open and feature a dedicated $1.85 million funding stream specifically targeting the critical 12 to 15 age group, where participation rates show a concerning decline during the transition from primary to secondary education.
The model for the world-first social media ban for children under 16, which passed both houses of Federal Parliament last month, originated in SA and was championed by the state’s Premier. SA schools have also seen improved student engagement following a State Government-initiated mobile phone ban in schools.
Bye-bye, screens. Hello, sports…
Through the Active State Collaboration Program, delivered through the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing (ORSR), organisations are funded to facilitate inclusive programs with tangible benefits for the future health and wellbeing of South Australia’s youth.
Last year’s Active State Collaboration Program supported 11 projects, providing more than $1.4 million, where sporting and other organisations partnered to deliver unique and special initiatives supporting the physical and mental health of South Australians.
Tennis SA accessed funding through the Program to develop a First Nations tennis pathways program for the City of Playford partnering with Elizabeth Downs Primary School, Elizabeth North Primary School and Just 4 Tennis.
‘We want our kids active and enjoying the physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing benefits of being so – right now and for the rest of their lives,’ Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Katrine Hildyard says.
‘We know there are many reasons why kids are not active. We invite sporting and other organisations to partner and come up with innovative ways to ensure our young people feel welcome and confident about getting active and involved and we look forward to seeing how this round will make a difference.”
Tennis SA CEO Debbie Sterrey says “the support from the Active State Collaboration Program has been instrumental in driving the growth of our inclusion and diversity initiatives”.
“The First Nations tennis pathway program in the City of Playford is a fantastic example of how grassroots sports can inspire and engage communities. This initiative has not only introduced tennis to more young people but also fostered a sense of belonging and opportunity, which is truly invaluable.”
Applications for the Program close midday on Wednesday 5 March 2025.
