The ACT government has chosen International Day Against Homophobia to launch a $272,000 program designed to combat harassment, bullying and homophobia in Canberra sport.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
ACT Sports Minister Andrew Barr will today unveil the program, which will include a full-time project officer and two years' funding.
Mr Barr said a feature of the program would be to identify and break down barriers that may inhibit participation in sport by gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. He said these people ''could often feel isolated when it comes to sporting and recreational options''.
''As we all know, it is important to be active for both our physical and mental well-being.
''Being part of a sporting club is a great way to achieve this and we need to do all that we can to ensure that every club provides a welcoming and inclusive environment.''
Hockey ACT and Volleyball ACT, working with Sport and Recreation Services, will start pilot programs later this year.
''The two-year program will be run by Sport and Recreation Services and will work closely with the ACT Human Rights Commission to develop a suite of resources to assist clubs and organisations to develop a culture of inclusiveness and prepare them to manage instances of discrimination should they occur,'' Mr Barr said.
