In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Association has developed a three-prong proposal for local and central government to consider to support incorporated community sports clubs. The package is based on the premise that limits on usual club activity when combined with the economic stress of club members, will create a severe financial strain for clubs for at least the next 12 months (and quite possibly longer).
Firstly, the Association proposes that eligible clubs receive a $1,000 emergency cash grant from central Government to be applied to the general purposes of the club. Clubs will be solely responsible for determining how and where the emergency grant is used. The estimated cost of this grant is $7.5 million, (less than one-tenth of one per cent of the Government's recently announced economic rescue package).
Secondly, the Association has written to the Registrar of Incorporated Societies, requesting a deferral (for 12 months) of the financial reporting requirements for incorporated sports clubs (to preserve their legal status) given they may be unable to meet to fulfil their annual obligations.
Thirdly, the Association recommends that local authorities waive the usage fees (if applicable) for sports clubs to use community-owned playing fields or facilities, for a period of at least six-months. This will enable clubs (should the regular season commence), to minimise this cost.
You can listen to Association Chairman, Gordon Noble-Campbell discuss the package on Radio Sport's Weekender Show with Jim Kayes, by clicking on the media player below.