Sport NSW Supports Committee Recommendations

Sport NSW, the peak sporting body in the state, have today supported a number of the recommendations contained in the final report from the NSW Upper House Standing Committee on Social Issues inquiry into Childhood Overweight and Obesity, released late last week.

Sport NSW made a submission to the inquiry, and also appeared before the Committee, to advocate for three primary outcomes, being:

1. Trained physical education teachers in all primary schools delivering a core curriculum around increasing activity levels and physical literacy;
2. Higher funding for State Sporting Organisations to assist with developing their sports;
3. Long term investment into community sporting facilities to ensure availability and access for all.

Increasing physical activity levels through participation in sport and active recreation will not only contribute to reduced obesity rates amongst children, it also impacts positively on mental well-being and teaches the important life skills of teamwork and resiliency.

Sport NSW were encouraged by the recommendations numbered 4 and 7 in the report which directly referenced the need for improved physical education programs in schools and the issue of reducing the cost of organised sport for children.

Sport NSW Chairperson Joseph La Posta called on the Government to act as quickly as possible on the recommendations which would lead to more children playing sport.

“We urge the Government to accept the recommendation on improving physical education in schools so that children develop a level of physical literacy which stays with them for life. This makes them much more likely to be a life-long participant in their sports of choice and leads to a healthier lifestyle overall,” Mr La Posta said.

“We are also encouraged by the recommendations on facility sharing and for the urban planning process to take into consideration the need for facilities which will provide positive health outcomes for communities.”

“Sport NSW believes the recommendations in the report give scope for the NSW Government to implement initiatives which will provide a long-term financial return to the health sector. Participation in sport is the positive and proactive step that can be taken now to improve the physical activity habits of children, which can then be taken into a healthier adulthood,” said Mr La Posta.

Further Information or comment:

Darren Simpson, Chief Executive Officer – Sport NSW

M: 0407 926 421   E: darren.simpson@sportnsw.com.au