FACT SHEET #F17: SPORT AND RECREATION

What’s in the Budget on sport and recreation?

The 2006/07 Budget provides for some change to the current arrangements governing sport and recreation in the ACT. Sport and Recreation ACT will move to the new Department of Territory and Municipal Services (TAMS).

The Stadiums Authority Board is to be disbanded, with the Stadiums Authority integrated into TAMS. This means all sporting facilities will now be managed from the one department. 

How does the ACT compare to other States and Territories?

The ACT has the highest participation rate in physical activity in Australia. Targeted programs and development grants constitute around 37% of overall Sport and Recreation ACT expenditure and fund significant community sporting activities, clubs and facilities.

However, administration of Sport and Recreation Development Grants is currently at 16% of program expenditure, compared to best practice ranging from 3% to 5%.

Why is the ACT Government making this change?

The streamlining of sports management activities, including management of facilities and grants, will result in less confusion for members of the public and economic savings through streamlining administration.

What effect will this have on the ACT’s bottom line?

There will be savings in overhead costs of about $804,000 realised from streamlining governance and administrative arrangements.