Ms SPENCE (Yuroke—Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Youth, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:17): I rise to inform the house of the return to competition for community sport and how the sector has continued to benefit from the Andrews Labor government’s short-term survival package. We know that getting back on the field or court means so much to so many Victorians; it is critical to their physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Over 3 million Victorians are involved in community sport. That is why I am thrilled that a return to competition for community sport was announced on Sunday. From kids enjoying a kick on a Saturday morning to over-18s getting back on the field, community sport is finally coming back. There will be a staggered return to the competition. Juniors will be able to return to full-contact training and competition 22 June, and adults will return to full-contact training on 13 July ahead of a competition start date on 20 July.

I am also pleased to advise the house that we have not wasted a day getting support to community clubs across the state, with around 4250 grant applications received for the short-term survival package. With community sport returning in the coming weeks, we are also making sure that more clubs can access this funding by extending the application process for the $1000 grants to the end of June. This will help clubs with basic running costs and to get them back to competition safely and hygienically. This is an exciting time for thousands of clubs and tens of thousands of competitors across Victoria. A big thanks to each and every one of them. I know that members will be cheering every player, every umpire, every coach and every volunteer as they return to competition.