Women Sport Australia expresses deep disappointment following the Victorian Government’s decision to defund VicHealth. For decades, VicHealth has been a cornerstone in promoting health, wellbeing, and gender equality through sport, delivering programs that have empowered women and girls across Victoria.
“VicHealth has played an instrumental role in creating opportunities for women and girls to participate in sport and physical activity,” said Chantella Perera, President of Women Sport Australia. “The programs supported by VicHealth have not only improved health outcomes but have also driven cultural change towards greater inclusion and equality. Losing this support is a significant setback for the progress we’ve made.”
Women Sport Australia acknowledges the incredible impact VicHealth has had in fostering partnerships, funding grassroots initiatives, and championing diversity in sport. The organisation urges the Victorian Government to reconsider this decision and explore alternative measures to ensure these vital programs continue. This decision hits harder after the Office for Women in Sport was defunded earlier this year. Programs such as ‘This Girl Can’ were sector leading, creating opportunities for women and girls to get active.
“We call on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to protect the legacy of VicHealth and maintain momentum towards a more equitable sporting landscape,” Perera added.
