Funding, Programs and Support

Indigenous Sport and Recreation

More detailed information on the Indigenous Sport and Recreation Program.

Overview

The Indigenous Sport and Recreation Program (ISRP) is an Australian Government program that provides funding to community groups, organisations and the Australian Sports Commission to increase and encourage the active participation of Indigenous Australians in sport and physical recreation activities.

Active participation in sport and physical recreation is supported because they contribute to improving the health and well-being of Indigenous Australians and have the potential, either directly or indirectly, to contribute to broader social benefits such as social cohesion and diversionary activities in areas of social concern such as substance abuse and school attendance.

Activities the program can support

The ISRP supports projects that:

• encourage wide community involvement and active participation in group sport and physical recreation activities;
• are designed to build the skills of community members to participate in, organise and promote community sport and physical recreation activities over the long term; and
• promote healthy living, drug free participation and respect for players, officials and spectators.

How the program is administered

Administered by the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA), funding to community groups and organisations is made available through either an annual submission process or Shared Responsibility Agreements (SRAs). The annual submission process is a competitive process whereby individuals, community groups or organisations apply for funding to undertake activities that increase and encourage the active participation of Indigenous Australians in sport and physical recreation activities.

SRAs are agreements at the local level between government and Indigenous communities or families that outline what each party will do in order to bring about beneficial change.

The Australian Sports Commission receives funds from the Department to administer the Indigenous Sport Program - consisting of a network of Indigenous Sport Development Officers; and a program of financial assistance to talented Indigenous athletes.

See further information at how to apply.

Photos left to right: Vibe 3-on-3 basketball and hip hop challenge in Yirrkala in the Northern Territory in 2003; Vibe 3-on-3 basketball and hip hop challenge in Wilcannia in New South Wales in 2004