Help shape Council's Fair Access policy, action plan

Published on 30 June 2024

Residents are encouraged to help Gannawarra Shire Council develop its Fair Access policy and action plan, which will reduce the barriers women, girls and people of all cultures experience in accessing community sports infrastructure.

Developed in response to the Victorian Government’s Fair Access Policy Roadmap, the two documents aim to increase participation in sport and active recreation throughout the Gannawarra.

“Sport and active recreation provides great health and social benefit to residents, however for many people, it can be difficult to take part in these activities,” Mayor Ross Stanton said.

“The growing popularity of women’s sports, driven by AFLW, the WBBL and the Matildas’ success at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, highlights the need for increasing opportunities for all residents to access sport and active recreation locally.

“Council’s Fair Access policy and action plan will help our local clubs to attract new players, volunteers and officials, as well as ensure these groups remain eligible for future funding opportunities.”

Draft versions of both documents are available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/fairaccess, with a four-week community engagement program to assist with developing the final version of the policy and action plan.

The key element of this engagement program is the Fair Access Community Survey, which residents can complete between now and 5pm Monday, 22 July online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/fairaccess or by collecting a copy at Council’s Customer Service Centres at Cohuna and Kerang.

“This survey, which takes less than five minutes to complete, will help Council understand how residents currently participate in sport and active recreation locally and what barriers prevent people from participating,” Mayor Stanton said.

Copies of the survey will also be available from community drop-in sessions occurring during the next three weeks, which will enable residents to meet with Councillors and Council staff to learn more about the Fair Access policy and action plan.

Drop-in session will be held on the following dates:

• Wednesday, 3 July, 11am-2pm: Willow Park, Koondrook (Corner Forest and Thompson streets)
• Tuesday, 16 July, 3pm-5pm: Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre, Cohuna (King George Street)
• Thursday, 18 July, 10am-1pm: Victoria Square, Kerang (Victoria Street)

An online zoom session will also be available, with the time and date of this to be confirmed. To register your interest in attending an online session please email partnerships@gsc.vic.gov.au.

Feedback regarding the draft versions of both documents can also be provided before 5pm Monday, 22 July by writing to Council. This can be done by emailing council@gsc.vic.gov.au or writing to PO Box 287, Kerang VIC 3579.

“All feedback provided via the Fair Access Community Survey and in writing will assist with the development of the final version of both documents, which will be presented to Council for adoption in August this year,” Mayor Stanton said.

For more information regarding the draft Fair Access policy and action plan, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/fairaccess