Community rugby clubs across New South Wales will be the beneficiaries of financial support thanks to the NSW Government.
NSW Rugby has welcomed the announcement of the Community Sport Recovery Package, set to assist thousands of rugby clubs in dealing with the impacts of COVID-19.
The $27.3 million recovery package includes financial support and assistance for grassroots sport and recreation organisations across NSW.
NSW Rugby CEO, Paul Doorn said the funding would prove a vital contribution to kick-start community rugby competitions – aiming to resume in late-July.
“We’re so thankful for this funding announcement from the NSW Government,” Doorn said.
“Given the strain COVID-19 has placed on all areas of our society, to have the Office of Sport deliver funding to grassroots clubs will assist as we look to resume community rugby.
“We’ll be working with clubs closely on their safe return to play beyond that time, as well as how they can successfully resume under current bio-security measures implemented by the NSW Government.”
Acting Minister for Sport, Geoff Lee said the recovery package was not just about helping sports survive but thrive.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on everyone’s lives, including the sport and recreation sector,” Mr Lee said.
“NSW has 5.4 million adults and over 900,000 children participating in sport and recreation, 415,000 volunteers and 30,000 employees. The pandemic has clearly placed a major strain on community sport and recreation organisations.
“Today’s assistance will ensure organisations survive the crisis and will help get millions of NSW residents back into activities they love in a safe environment.”
The Community Sport Recovery Package will include financial support for State Sporting Organisations (SSOs), State Sporting Organisations for people with disability (SSODs), local sporting clubs and associations, and Regional Academies of Sport.
This funding is in addition to the $35 million of grant programs and the $127 million continued investment in the Active Kids program for 2020/21.
