The University of New England has been awarded $204,252 for a new initiative aimed at ensuring migrants and refugees living in the area can participate in sport and physical activity.
UNE Lecturer in Health & Physical Education, Dr Kristy O'Neill, said sport and community exercise are great ways for new arrivals to make friends and connections, especially in regional areas where these activities are often a primary means of social connection.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to bring this program to Armidale as another way to encourage community connection and allow more people to attain the physical, mental and social benefits that regular exercise enables,” Dr O’Neill said.
The grants are the outcome of a competitive process run by the Federal Government last year which attracted more than 850 applications.
Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said “UNE was identified as serving an important role in bridging the divide and encouraging social inclusion across New England. This organisation and others like it continue to play a vital role as we strive toward being more inclusive.”
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), recommending the resumption of sport and recreation activities must be done safely and not compromise the health and safety of individuals and the community.