Today marks International Youth Day, where we recognise the challenges that can affect children’s mental and physical wellbeing.
For children in military families, some of those challenges occur when mum or dad (or both) receive a new posting or transition out of the Australian Defence Force. A change of home, school and community can be daunting for children, but sport can make settling into a new routine and community a little bit easier.
Sport is a great way for children to stay active, build confidence, make friends and find a sense of stability during times of change.
Keeping it manageable and finding support.
Sport should help your family, not create stress. It is important to pick activities that fit your schedule and budget.
Sometimes, things like cost, transport, confidence, anxiety, or moving often can make it hard to join in. In these cases, support might be available from schools, local community groups, or clubs with flexible and inclusive programs.
Depending on where you live, sports voucher programs may help cover costs such as registration, uniforms, equipment, or activity fees. Encourage your child without pressure, focus on fun instead of performance, and celebrate their effort to help them feel safe, supported, and included.
Funding options by state and territory
| State or territory | Program | What it may help cover | Typical eligibility |
| ACT | Every Chance to Play | Up to $250 for junior sport registration fees | Children and young people aged 5 to 18 facing financial barriers, through a trusted referrer |
| NSW | Active and Creative Kids | $50 vouchers for eligible active, creative or cultural activities | School-aged children aged 4.5 to 18 in families receiving Family Tax Benefit |
| NT | Sport Voucher Scheme | 2 x $100 vouchers for sport, recreation and cultural activities | Children from Transition to Year 12 enrolled in school or registered for home schooling |
| QLD | Play On! Sports Vouchers | Up to $200 for sport membership, registration or participation fees | Children aged 5 to 17; one voucher per child per financial year |
| SA | Sports Vouchers Plus | 2 x $100 vouchers for sport, active recreation and music fees | Children living in South Australia in Reception to Year 9 |
| TAS | Ticket to Play | 2 x $100 vouchers for club membership or registration fees | Children aged 5 to 18 who meet card, Family Tax Benefit, care or visa pathway criteria |
| VIC | Get Active Kids Voucher Program | Up to $200 for membership and registration fees, and sometimes included uniform or equipment costs | Children aged 0 to 18 named on a valid Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card and Medicare card |
| WA | KidSport | Help with club registration fees, and in some cases essential uniforms or equipment | Children aged 5 to 18 with a valid Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card, or eligible through financial hardship pathways |
Program rules, voucher amounts, opening dates and approved providers can change. Check your state or territory government website for the latest information before you apply.
Where to find more information
For the latest eligibility rules, opening dates, approved providers and application details, check your state or territory government website. You can also ask your child’s school, local council, community organisation or sporting club about low-cost programs, inclusive activities and local support options.
