KidSport boost to support WA foster and family carers
Western Australians who foster or care for children alongside their biological children will be able to get KidSport vouchers for all 5 to 18-year-olds in their family.
The aim of KidSport vouchers is to support children from low-income families to participate in community sport. KidSport vouchers can be used at more than 2000 clubs State-wide to cover registration fees, and essential uniforms and playing equipment.
The KidSport voucher amount was increased to up to $500 per eligible child for the 2024-25 financial year to help ease cost of living pressures on Western Australian families.
KidSport is generally open to families who hold a health care or pensioner concession card, however, eligibility has been extended to include a Special Consideration category.
Since August 2023 the vouchers have been more accessible for foster children. Now biological children of foster and family carers will also qualify for KidSport.
Fremantle Dockers forward Jye Amiss is a supporter of the change.
“My mum’s been a foster carer for quite a while now and we’ve had foster kids come in and out of the house,” he said.
“Obviously the benefits will be massive for not only the foster kids but also the siblings that are in the house as well that are biological. It sort of gives everyone the equal opportunity and allows everyone to reach their maximum capacity when they want to achieve something in sport.”
Photo: Fremantle Dockers forward Jye Amiss at KidSport Club, Piara Waters Junior Football Club with players William, Siena, Hunter and Aidan
Additionally, there will be support for at-risk youth by extending KidSport to include the Target 120 Program. Target 120 works across local organisations, service providers, government agencies and the community. The program supports young people at risk of becoming repeat offenders by connecting them and their families with tailored services.
Since KidSport kicked off in 2011, a massive $49.8 million has been given out through the program. More than 325,000 vouchers have gone to more than 122,000 children, with the most popular five sports being Australian Rules Football, Netball, Football (Soccer), Basketball and Gymnastics. KidSport vouchers are also for activities such as Calisthenics, Cricket, Wheelchair Rugby, Tennis, Swimming, and more.
KidSport is open to eligible children aged 5 to 18 years old. For more information visit contact the team at kidsport@dlgsc.wa.gov.au