Changes to Kidsport eligibility rules, which came into effect in January 2017 could potentially be affecting many clubs across Western Australia, by reducing the number of players and income earned by clubs, and subsequently putting more pressure on clubs to fundraise to make up the shortfall.
KidSport is a government program which started in 2011 to offer eligible families vouchers worth up to $200 to assist with the cost of equipment, uniforms and fees, helping kids who may otherwise have missed out on club sports, join local teams.
Prior to the changes, there were two ways eligible kids could be selected for the program: either by being listed on a concession card (Healthcare or Pensioner) or by being referred to KidSport by a specialist agent, who would determine that involvement in sports could be of benefit to the child.
The primary change the program is the removal of the referral agents, meaning that eligibility for the program is now based solely on a financial basis.
For families without the concession cards, children can still be deemed eligible for the vouchers if they meet one of four ‘exceptions’ – a death or serious illness of a parent, sudden and involuntary loss of employment by the primary breadwinner, a natural disaster that causes significant hardship, or being placed into care.
The changes are likely to affect some clubs more than others, as the number of local families able to afford club sports is reduced.
Is your club being affected by changes? How are you coping with the reduction in players
For more information about KidSport and changes to eligibility rules please click here.
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