CLP government continues sports voucher scheme
Territory families can again access $100 vouchers towards each child’s out-of-school activities. Read the details.
Northern Territory
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Parents and families can again access a $100 voucher per child to be used for a range of activities in this year’s sports voucher scheme.
People, Sport and Culture Minister Jinson Charls made the announcement on Friday.
“It’s a great opportunity for children to engage in activities and also for families to be assisted — especially if they are struggling,” Mr Charls said.
The voucher scheme has been in place since 2013, and 37,500 vouchers were issued in 2023-24.
Despite the name of the scheme, sports vouchers can be used for a range of extra-curricular activities, including workshops, cultural activities and music lessons.
Families are given $100 per school-aged child to be used at more than 230 providers Territory-wide during the first half of the year.
“We encourage families and children to explore new activities as well,” Mr Charls said.
Vice-president of PINTS Netball ClubMaddy Brown praised the scheme for increasing access to sports for young people.
“Last year alone we had 130 players use the sports vouchers to come and try netball and join our club,” Ms Brown said.
“We’ve seen a great increase in the numbers of children and families joining PINTS Netball Club thanks to the vouchers available.”
The scheme, which is targeted at urban schoolchildren, is predicted to cost $3.8 million, with a further $4.2 million allocated towards remote programs.
Last round, 30 per cent of vouchers issued were not redeemed.
The voucher does have its limitations — it cannot be used for most school activities.
Mr Charls said the focus was on providing access to activities outside of school hours.
More information on the voucher scheme can be found at https://nt.gov.au/leisure/sport/sport-and-swim-vouchers/sport-voucher-scheme-urban/get-sport-vouchers-for-your-child
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Originally published as CLP government continues sports voucher scheme
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