Queensland kids score big with new Play On! Sports Vouchers
This key measure in the upcoming Budget will ensure Queensland families can claim one $200 Play On! Sport Voucher per child aged between five and 17.
The vouchers will be offered for either summer or winter sport, while there will be a dedicated allocation for children living with a disability, and for kids living in regional and remote areas to even the playing field.
A record budget allocation of $62.5 million each year for four years toward the new program will help alleviate the rising cost of living for Queensland families.
As shown in Labor’s last budget papers, funding for previous sports vouchers was only allocated for one year in 2024-25, highlighting the fact it was never part of Labor’s plan to continue them.
The Crisafulli Government has ensured junior sport vouchers, which the LNP created more than a decade ago, allow children to participate in the sport they love regardless of the season.
Premier David Crisafulli said the key cost of living commitment would not only help offset other household expenses but help keep kids healthy.
“The Play On! Sports Vouchers program means more kids will be able to be part of a sporting team, joining their friends on the field, rather than watching from the sidelines,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“This new program is about better health and fitness but also for discipline and ensuring kids can be part of their community.”
Treasurer David Janetzki said the Crisafulli Government was proud to deliver cost-of-living relief to Queensland families while also encouraging kids to play sport.
“We understand how tough it is for families to manage day-to-day expenses, let alone rising costs associated with organised sport for their kids,” Mr Janetzki said.
“Growing up, I couldn’t put down the cricket bat so for other kids with passions of their own, I know how exciting this will be.
“Unlike the former Labor Government, we’re funding our program across the forward estimates to ensure every child has a chance to Play On!”
Along with this announcement, Member for Pumicestone Ariana Doolan re-affirmed her commitment to deliver critical funding to multiple sporting groups across the electorate.
“The Crisafulli Government is making the largest investment into community sport with our PlayOn! And GamesOn! programs, and Pumicestone is set to reap the rewards,” Ms Doolan said.
“Clubs in my electorate such as the Bribie Island Movement and Strengths Club, Bribie Little Athletics, Bribie Island Netball Club, Beachmere Rugby League Club and Bribie Island Surf Club will all receive funding through the GamesOn! program which is great news for our community.”
“My constituents have expressed their concerns with cost of living, and programs such as the new PlayOn! sport Vouchers are just another way that the Crisafulli government is looking out for Queenslanders.
Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the Play On! Sports Vouchers would ensure regional Queensland families got their fair share.
“Through Games On! and now Play On! Sports Vouchers our Government will make the biggest investment in grassroots sport in Queensland’s history,” Minister Mander said.
“This will ensure regional and remote Queenslanders get their fair share of vouchers and we’ll be working with the sport sector to make sure the program fits regional community needs.
“We also want to reduce barriers and grow the opportunities for children and young people living with a disability over the next four years.
“Play On! Sports Vouchers will bring more accessible activities into the program.”
The first round is set to open at 9:00am on 4 August 2025.
To pre-register and for more information visit: qld.gov.au/playon
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