Queensland kids will have better access to organised sport as the Miles Labor Government smashes the cost barrier by expanding the FairPlay vouches.
The Miles Labor Government is increasing the size and numbers of vouchers to ensure more Queensland kids can play sport.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles said he is committed to expanding the FairPlay program.
“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,” Mr Miles said.
“This program expansion will put money back in the pockets of busy mums and dads to spend on what matters most.”
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.
The Sport Minister Micheal Healy said the state government have listened to the community who have been calling for this program to be expanded to include all Queensland families.
“The Miles Government’s top priority is the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders, which includes encouraging participation and helping to make physical activity more accessible and inclusive,” Mr Healy said.
“Playing sport and having an active lifestyle is an important aspect of who we are as Queenslanders, and it shouldn’t be limited to just those who can afford to take part.
“By expanding the eligibility of those who can access FairPlay and by increasing the value of the vouchers, more Queensland kids will have the opportunity to take the field instead of simply being a spectator.”
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.
