Review of timing of grants for sports facilities

6/3/94

The timing of State Government grants for sport and recreation facilities in Western Australia is under review.

Sport and Recreation Minister Norman Moore said today a review panel had been appointed to decide whether to maintain the current three-year cycle, or to revert to annual funding.

Mr Moore said the panel would consider which time frame was the most appropriate for the best planning, design and management of facilities which were financially viable and socially effective.

The review panel would be chaired by Dianella MLA, Dr Kim Hames, and would include City of Cockburn Deputy Town Clerk, Don Green, Tennis West President, Alan Hicks, together with Ministry of Sport and Recreation representatives Allan Tranter and   Brett Roberts.  It would report to the Minister within three months.

The terms of reference were to evaluate the effectiveness and benefits of the triennium funding compared with annual allocations.  Triennium funding was introduced in 1992/93.

Under the Community, Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund (CSRFF) the State Government grants money to local government authorities, sporting associations and local clubs to help with the construction or upgrading of facilities for sport and recreation.

About $15 million had been granted in the 1992/93 to 1994/95 triennium to 355 successful applicants from the 656 applications received.  Projects funded ranged from resurfacing tennis courts to construction of major indoor recreation centres.

Mr Moore said that WA had excellent sport and recreation facilities as a result of the millions of dollars contributed to the community by the CSRFF.

"The level of funding for facilities has created an unequalled sport and recreation lifestyle, as well as making a significant contribution to the economy through jobs creation, particularly in the construction industry," the Minister said.

"This funding review is in line with the Coalition Government's emphasis on efficiency and effectiveness."

Media contact:  Ross Storey 321 1444 or 222 9595