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Fair Access Policy to level the playing field in Bass Coast

Bass Coast Shire Council adopted a Fair Access Policy and Action Plan to enhance gender equity, ensuring equal prize money for all sports, aligning with state requirements for funding eligibility.

By news@gippsland - 18th July 2024 - Back to News

At this month's Council Meeting, Bass Coast Shire Council unanimously adopted a comprehensive Fair Access Policy and Action Plan aimed at enhancing gender equity within the local community. Already a leader in gender equality, Bass Coast Shire Council became the first council in Victoria to demand the same prize money for men and women for all sporting competitions held at council owned or managed facilities in the region.

Bass Coast Shire Council shared the Draft Fair Access Policy and Action Plan for public comment from March 15 to April 21, 2024, aiming to eliminate barriers to community sports facilities

Policy ensures inclusivity

The policy builds upon council's existing commitments outlined in initiatives such as Active Bass Coast and the Gender Equality Action Plan, and is a proactive response to the state government's new Fair Access requirements, which mandate gender-equitable access and use policies for all Victorian Local Government Authorities (LGAs) to qualify for state infrastructure funding, effective from 1 July 2024.

"This policy is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for all community members. It reflects our commitment to ensuring fair and equitable access to local facilities, promoting active participation and community engagement," said Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve.

Central to the Fair Access Policy and Action Plan is a collaborative approach involving key stakeholders such as GippSport, State Sporting Associations, local clubs, leagues, and community management committees. This partnership aims to implement gender equity audits and facilitate necessary changes within local clubs and facilities to meet the policy's objectives.

Community shaped policy

Community voices were heard in the development of this initiative through a comprehensive community consultation process. Feedback from residents, clubs, and stakeholders played a crucial role in shaping the Bass Coast Fair Access Policy and Action Plan.

Key components of the plan include updating council's community grants criteria to support fair access initiatives, providing training to clubs for conducting gender equity audits and developing action plans, and revising existing policies to foster inclusivity across all community activities.

"Council is committed to empowering local clubs to undertake meaningful gender equity audits and implement necessary changes. Through this proactive approach, we aim to eliminate barriers and ensure that every community member has fair access to enjoy and benefit from our local facilities," Cr Le Serve said. For more information on the Bass Coast Fair Access Policy and Action Plan visit Engage Bass Coast - Fair Access Policy page.

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com