NEW ROUND OF FAIRPLAY GIVES 2022 A JUMP START

More young people will be getting active in 2022 with applications opening on 19 January for a new round of the ever-popular FairPlay voucher program.

Member for Nicklin, Robert Skelton MP said FairPlay encourages young people to sign up with their favourite sporting club or active recreation through $150 vouchers that help cover membership, registration or participation fees.

“FairPlay gives thousands of young people opportunities for physical exercise and social interactions they otherwise may not have,” Mr Skelton said.

“this is a great opportunity for Sunshine Coast kids to improve their health and wellbeing, learn new skills, meet new friends and develop a life-long passion for sport.

“These vouchers will also help Sunshine Coast sporting clubs kick off the year in the best possible way, bringing in new members to strengthen their teams and programs.

“With Brisbane 2032 now on the horizon, FairPlay takes on extra significance as it will increase participation levels and help us uncover future champions.

“There are many activities to choose from including beach volleyball, girl guides, lacrosse, orienteering and water polo that will also help young Queenslanders stay fit and healthy and make new friends.”

Applications will be open from 19 January to 23 March, 2022.

Mount Cotton Scout Group Leader Darryl Bennett said FairPlay vouchers give more young people the opportunity to experience all the activities and challenges Scouts has to offer.

“Scouting prides itself on being an inclusive organisation,” said Mr Bennett.

“FairPlay Vouchers help many children enjoy the fun of being a Scout, whilst developing a wide range of life skills that the Scout program offers.”

In 2021, 170 Scout Groups in Queensland submitted 1622 FairPlay vouchers for their youth members – many of them would otherwise not have been able to afford to join up.

Mr Stewart said more than 102,000 vouchers worth over $15 million have been claimed since the program began in mid-2019.

“Parents, carers or guardians can apply for a voucher if their child is aged 5 to 17 years and they have a valid Centrelink Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card with the child’s name on it,” he said.

“Applications can be made through a referral agent for families without a government concession card.”

Vouchers must be presented to a registered activity provider by 11 May 2022 and providers should have them redeemed by 25 May 2022.

A list of activity providers in local communities is on the FairPlay website where parents, carers and guardians can also check eligibility.

FairPlay is a key part of Activate! Queensland 2019-2029, the Queensland Government’s 10-year strategy to get more Queenslanders moving, more often.

For more information, please visit www.qld.gov.au/fairplayvouchers