SFF MEDIA STATEMENT: SFF ADVOCATED FOR EQUITY IN TASMANIA CRICKET FUNDING

Tasmania, February 24, 2024 – The Shooters, Fishers & Farmers Party Tasmania stands firmly behind the equitable recognition and funding of cricket in Tasmania. In discussions today between SFF Party Secretary Phillip Bigg and Allison Turner, GM of Government Relations & Infrastructure at Cricket Tasmania, regarding the WNCL Bellerive game, it has become evident that cricket has been overlooked in terms of funding. The Shooters, Fishers & Farmers Party of Tasmania asserts that cricket, as an integral component of Tasmania's sporting landscape, deserves equitable support and resources to flourish.

Historically, successive governments have directed substantial resources towards certain sports while neglecting others. The Shooters, Fishers & Farmers Party Tasmania acknowledges the blind pursuit of certain sporting codes, which has resulted in inadequate attention being given to sports like cricket.

The Shooters, Fishers & Farmers Party Tasmania fully supports Cricket Tasmania's call for an annual allocation of $5 million to address the disparity in funding and ensure the comprehensive growth of the sport. This funding will serve two pivotal objectives:

Expansion of Grassroots Participation: The allocated resources will facilitate the growth of cricket at the junior and community levels. By providing quality experiences and opportunities on par with other highly-participated sports in the state, we can ensure that Tasmanian cricket becomes accessible to all Tasmanians, fostering inclusivity and diversity within the sport.

Investment in High-Performance Pathways: It is imperative to bridge the existing $2 million gap in high-performance programs and expenditure between Cricket Tasmania and other state cricket associations. This investment will support the development of pathways for aspiring players, enabling them to compete at the highest levels both nationally and internationally.

The Shooters, Fishers & Farmers Party Tasmania recognises the significant role that cricket plays in Tasmania's sporting culture. As a sport that promotes teamwork, discipline, and cultural exchange, cricket enriches the lives of Tasmanians and contributes to the vibrancy of our communities.

Moreover, the $5 million funding goes partway towards sustaining the future of grassroots cricket.

Together, let us build a future where cricket, alongside other sports, enhances the health, well-being, and cultural richness of Tasmania.

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