“The ISARP is an integral part of the Australian Government’s commitment to improving the health and physical wellbeing of our Indigenous population.”

Community based initiatives giving greater opportunities for Indigenous Australians to participate in sport and recreation have today been announced through the Australian Government’s $30.4 million Indigenous Sport and Active Recreation Program (ISARP).

 Minister for Sport Kate Lundy today congratulated the 123 successful projects that will be funded under the program to deliver sport and recreation activities to Indigenous Australians across every State and Territory.

 “We all know that sport and recreation is a vital component to a healthy lifestyle,” Minister Lundy said.

 “This is even more so in our Indigenous population where incidence of diabetes and other diseases is more prevalent than in the non-Indigenous community.

 “The ISARP will support community participation in sport and recreation activities with funding over the next three years, as well as providing entry level employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians.

 “The projects funded are diverse and each has been designed to improve health outcomes among Indigenous communities.

 “In Queensland for example, $166,213 is being provided to the Stride Foundation to deliver school holiday program workshops for young Indigenous people aged six to 16 years in Mount Isa and the surrounding region. 

 “In the Warmun Community in Western Australia, $51,286 will assist in employing an Indigenous sport and recreation officer to assist with the delivery of sport and recreation activities for the community.

 “These are just two of the innovative programs being funded that will deliver clear social benefits and help reduce the gap on Indigenous disadvantage and mortality.” 

 Minister Lundy said that in addition to the health and fitness benefits, the social interaction of these activities helps develop skills, relationships, a sense of achievement and often a greater interest in education.

“These programs will foster community spirit and a sense of adventure, fun and enjoyment of life.

 “The ISARP is an integral part of the Australian Government’s commitment to improving the health and physical wellbeing of our Indigenous population.”

 For a full list of the grant recipients visit

 http://www.regional.gov.au/sport/programs/2012-13-isarp-successful-organisations.aspx

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