MEDIA RELEASE
23 April 2008
For immediate release
AUSTRALIA OFFERS FUNDING FOR GRASSROOTS SPORTS
The Australian Government is inviting organisations in PNG to seek funding for grassroots sport projects under its Australian Sports Outreach Program (ASOP).
A limited number of grants of up to $10,000 (around K23,000) are available for small to medium size community sport development projects which increase community participation in sport and physical activity and make a positive contribution to broader community issues such as health promotion, leadership and social cohesion.
Applications may be made by both government and non-government organisations, and must reach the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby by Friday 16 May.
ASOP is very competitive and applicants are encouraged to ensure that proposals are highly developed with realistic timeframes, detailed budgets, clear objectives and well-defined audiences. Proposals should also be able to demonstrate community support.
The Australian High Commissioner to PNG, His Excellency Mr Chris Moraitis, said: “ASOP has a strong focus on developmental, rather than elite, sport programs. It seeks to encourage wider participation in sport, especially by young children, people with a disability, women and girls and people in remote or rural communities.
“Australia is committed to helping the development of sport in PNG, including through ASOP. This commitment is part of our close relationship with PNG.”
ASOP was established in 2005 and to date it has supported nine sporting projects in PNG with a combined funding value of almost $24,000.00 (around K55,000.00).
Hohola Youth Boxing Club, which received just under K9000.00, is a good example of the sort of project which ASOP is designed to support. The club in Port Moresby used its funding to upgrade its training area and purchase equipment in order to develop young male and female boxers and help keep them away from crime.
For grant guidelines and application form and section criteria, visit http://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/spacific/asop/index.html
For further information contact Oliver Nombri at the Australian High Commission on telephone 325 9333 ext 454 or email [email protected]
Media Inquiries: Oliver Nombri, Public Diplomacy Officer, T: 325 9333 ext 454