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Tennis Australia Secures Funding to Boost Participation Among Women and Girls
Melbourne, VIC, Australia, 22 January 2025 | Tennis Australia
Tennis Australia has been awarded nearly one million dollars aimed at encouraging greater participation among women and girls in tennis while enhancing the numerous mental and physical health benefits that sports can offer.
The Albanese Government has allocated $992,000 specifically to implement programs across approximately 60 clubs designed to promote the engagement and retention of women and girls hailing from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. This sport/minister-rabbitte-celebrates-e16-7-million-investment-boost-for-galway-sports/” title=”Minister Rabbitte celebrates €16.7 million investment boost for Galway sports”>funding is part of the government’s broader $200 million Play Our Way initiative aimed at dismantling obstacles faced by female athletes.
Implementation Across Clubs Nationwide
Starting July 2025, Tennis Australia will collaborate with these clubs nationwide to implement customized strategies tailored for each location. Each club will strive to assist an average of 30 CALD women and girls through various outreach programs.
“Promoting equality, inclusivity, and diversity both on the court and beyond is fundamental to our mission,” said Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia. “This grant from the government bolsters our ongoing initiatives aimed at engaging women and girls in tennis—placing a special emphasis on those from diverse cultural backgrounds.”
A Pathway for Future Stars
Minister for Sport Anika Wells expressed her support: “While we take pride in Australia’s rich legacy in women’s tennis, far too many young females either hesitate to start or disengage as they transition into their late teenage years. We need more individuals from varied backgrounds involved in sports.”
This investment could potentially foster talent that might one day compete for medals at major events like Brisbane’s upcoming 2032 Olympic Games.
The Benefits of Sports Engagement
“Participating in sports such as tennis contributes significantly not only to personal well-being but also plays an essential role in uniting communities,” Wells continued. “The Play Our Way initiative will facilitate a safer environment for women and girls of all backgrounds who wish to engage with tennis.”
Aiming High: Targeted Support Goals
This program intends to provide opportunities for approximately 1800 CALD women and girls within this framework. Out of over 600 applications received nationwide, Tennis Australia was one among just 124 sporting organizations granted funding under this initiative focused on participation enhancements.
A Commitment Towards Progression
This additional funding is set forth alongside ongoing efforts stemming from Tennis Australia’s Women & Girls Strategy established three years ago – with aspirations ensuring limitless possibilities exist for female athletes both on-court and off.
The Australian Open’s celebration dedicated specifically to Women & Girls Day is slated for Thursday January 23rd – featuring highlights including our prestigious AO Inspirational Series dedicated entirely towards honoring women’s contributions within the sport.
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