The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) has criticised cuts to local sport funding in the Western Australian State Government’s Bigger Picture for sport in Western Australia program.
WALGA President Mayor Troy Pickard said the decision to reduce the funding by 65 percent, from $20 million to $7 million in the 2016/17 financial year, was a backward step.
“These are the facilities at the heart of local sports and recreation.
“They are where kids are active, play sports and learn important skills such as team work and leadership.
“These are the places that bring communities together and promote a healthy lifestyle.
“They are a central part of the West Australian lifestyle that we treasure.”
Mayor Pickard said the planned cuts took funding to an unprecedented low level that was $3 million less than when the Barnett Government came to power in 2008, ironically on an election platform that included increasing the Community Sport and Recreation Facilities Fund.
“A larger funding pool helps leverage many more millions of dollars in contributory community and Local Government funding, providing much needed community and sporting infrastructure throughout the State.
“For example, the City of Gosnells recently completed a $47 million recreation centre that was initiated and facilitated by a $4 million Community Sport and Recreation Facilities Fund grant.
“That is a fantastic return on investment for the State and shows the value of the fund and why cutting it back is far more damaging to the State than any savings gained.”
The Western Australian Government announced funding for a new $700 million stadium for elite athletes.
“The new stadium at Burswood will undoubtedly be an icon for elite sport in WA but the State Government also needs to appreciate that it is at local community facilities where our champions get their start and they also need genuine support,” Mayor Pickard said.
