SANFL clubs to be aided by funding from JobKeeper scheme

The SANFL clubs are facing a huge financial battle in the wake of the coronavirus, but a government initiative has offered them reason for optimism.

• Members have backed their SANFL clubs as they confront the financial challenge caused by the coronavirus
• How to get the most out of your Advertiser digital subscription

Norwood chief executive James Fantasia has described the Federal Government’s JobKeeper payment initiative as a “game changer” in the financial challenge confronting SANFL clubs.

Fantasia said the scheme would enable the club to regain staff members who had been stood down and keep the club functioning.

The government will provide wage subsidies to businesses significantly affected by COVID-19, with eligible employers receiving $1500 per fortnight for each eligible worker.

Glenelg is among the state league clubs who have already registered for the program and it will impact the 10 permanent staff stood down by the Tigers.

Sturt Football Club's General Manager Sue Dewing and President Jason Kilic at Unley Oval. Picture: MATT LOXTON

“This is a game changer under the circumstances where we can get our staff back,” Fantasia said.

“It means we can keep functioning and position ourselves, not just to sustain, but to be up and running to go full steam ahead.

“It is important to be able to support our own industry and people within it, they drive it and make it work. We are still finding out the details, but the quicker we can get back to some normality with some roles the better off we will be.”

Central District chief executive Kris Grant said the JobKeeper money would enable the club to continue to have staff in the office, crucial given the club is seeking members and donations.

He said two employees would share the workload and this would not be possible without the government support.

“We will be able to keep the employees on our books and they will be able to return to their jobs straight away when that is possible,” Grant said.

Woodville-West Torrens chief executive Luke Powell said the scheme would definitely help the clubs regain staff, although there was still a little uncertainty with its details.

His Sturt counterpart Sue Dewing described the JobKeeper program as absolutely fabulous and said it would take away a bit of the sting of standing down employees.

“This will provide some money for very good employees and help some young people with young families who we have had to stand down,” she said.

Originally published as SANFL clubs to be aided by funding from JobKeeper scheme