Girls and Women Participation in Sports

The Hon. M. EL DANNAWI (15:18): My question is to the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing. Will the minister inform the council about the Malinauskas government's efforts to increase girls' and women's participation in sport?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (15:18): I thank the honourable member for her question about supporting women's participation in sport, a goal this government is proud to lead with a vision, action and meaningful investments. Following the inspiring achievements of the Matildas during the 2023 World Cup, the Malinauskas Labor government committed $18 million over three years to create a lasting legacy for women and girls in sport.

From grassroots change rooms to elite pathways, the Power of Her—Infrastructure and Participation Program is now driving change across our state. This year, we have stepped up again with more than $9.1 million being made available in this round, the biggest round yet to support clubs and organisations that are removing barriers and making sport more inclusive, safe and empowering for South Australian women and girls.

Through this initiative we are not just investing in infrastructure, we are also investing in equity in participation and in changing the sporting culture. Our focus is clear: to ensure that every woman and girl in South Australia has the opportunity to lead, thrive and stay engaged in the sports they love.

In recent rounds we have seen how impactful this program can be. In Port Pirie, for example, the netball association used its $200,000 grant to resurface 12 netball courts. This upgrade has enabled over 600 players and volunteers to participate all year round, from juniors right through to adults. It is growing team numbers, boosting community pride and helping girls feel valued and included.

We know that this is an incredibly powerful program that has helped so many people within our community. We look forward to the momentum continuing, particularly with this new round and where it can take not only our girls but our women in their sport.