The state government has given the Encounter Bay Sports Complex redevelopment a $400,000 funding boost from its Grassroots Football, Cricket and Netball Facilities Program.

Member for Finniss David Basham has welcomed the grant, which will enable clubs located at the complex to upgrade facilities to meet modern requirements.

“We’re investing in the health and wellbeing of the community with these grants, which promote good health through physical activity and social connections.

“This redevelopment will provide a foundation for further growth of the sport clubs located at the Encounter Bay complex. Participation in community sports is growing across the Fleurieu Peninsula.”

The redevelopment includes a new kitchen, new unisex amenities and changerooms, a refurbished and expanded kiosk, gym facilities and trainers’ rooms. The redevelopment will ensure the facilities meet disability access requirements, and bring fire equipment up to new national standards.

Senator Andrew McLachlan says the state government’s contribution added to the $550,000 provided to the project by the federal government through the Community Development Grants Program.

This is the funding commonly known as the 'sports rorts' program, because the government allocated the vast majority of the money to Liberal-held electorates in the lead up to the last federal election.

“Community sport is changing for the better and becoming more inclusive,” the senator says. “It’s important that we invest in modern facilities which accommodate these changes, such as the unprecedented growth of women’s participation in football.

“Clubs located at the Encounter Bay complex should be commended for their redevelopment plans, which will provide an asset for broad community use well into the future.”