Activate
Sport & Active recreAtion
STRATEGY 2014-19
November 2014
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ........................................................................................ 3
1. Introduction.................................................................................................. 4
Purpose ....................................................................................................... 4
Process ........................................................................................................ 4
2. Benefits of sport and active recreation ....................................................... 5
3. A Vision for Recreation ............................................................................. 6
Key themes and Objectives......................................................................... 6
4. Key Principles.............................................................................................. 7
5. Strategic Context ......................................................................................... 8
Council Plan, 2013-17 ................................................................................. 9
Community Health and Wellbeing Plan....................................................... 9
6. Sport and Recreation in the City of Greater Dandenong .......................... 10
The Role of Council ................................................................................... 10
Current Provision ....................................................................................... 10
7. Demographic profile of Greater Dandenong ............................................. 11
Implications to sport and recreation provision........................................... 12
8. Sport and Recreation Trends .................................................................... 12
Participation Trends................................................................................... 12
General trends ........................................................................................... 14
Implications to sport and recreation provision........................................... 15
9. Action Plan ............................................................................................... 16
Theme 1: Active and engaged communities ............................................ 17
Theme 2: Indoor Recreation Facilities ...................................................... 20
Theme 3: Outdoor Sporting Facilities........................................................ 26
Theme 4: Informal Recreation Opportunities ........................................... 31
Theme 5: Sporting opportunities and club viability .................................. 34
10. Implementation and Review ................................................................... 36
Funding options ......................................................................................... 36
Evaluation and review ............................................................................... 36
2
Executive Summary
The City of Greater Dandenong recognises the
benefits to individuals and communities derived
from participating in physical activities and place a
high value on sport and active recreation in
promoting healthy lifestyles.
This Strategy titled Activate has been developed to
guide Council in the provision of facilities, services
and programs designed to increase participation in
sport and active recreation in the City of Greater
Dandenong.
This Strategy replaces Councils previous Leisure
Strategy that was developed in 2003.
Activate supports the directions of the City of
Greater Dandenong 2030 Community Plan,
Council Plan (2013-17) and the Community
Wellbeing Plan (2013-17) and provides an
overarching direction and context for recreation
related planning documents.
The information and recommendations contained
within the Strategy have been drawn from an
extensive research and consultation process
involving local clubs / associations, providers, state
sporting associations, schools and other local
government authorities.
Trends and Challenges
More than one third of residents in Greater
Dandenong do not meet the recommended levels
of physical activity.
Demographic and industry trends present a
number of challenges to the provision of sport and
active recreation opportunities in Greater
Dandenong. These include:
 A low level of physical activity amongst
females
 A high level of cultural diversity and the
need to consider language barriers, religious
beliefs, customs and cultural influences on
recreational preferences
 A low level of disposable income
 Work / time constraints and a greater
demand for flexible participation options
 High demands and forecast population
growth placing pressure on infrastructure
and services
Similar to National and State trends, the most
popular activities in Greater Dandenong are
1) walking, 2) swimming, 3) cycling, and 4) running
/ jogging. Other popular activities include
basketball, football - soccer, tennis, ballet / dance
and gym / aerobics / fitness.
Focus


Our vision is to build active, healthy and successful
communities in the City of Greater Dandenong
through increased participation in sport and
recreation and the provision of well planned,
accessible, affordable and sustainable facilities.
This can be summarised as:
more people – more active – more often
Key themes
In order to achieve this vision, a number of
strategic actions have been developed that have
been grouped under the following key themes:
1. Creating active and engaged communities.
2. Providing improved access to indoor
recreation facilities.
3. Maintaining access to outdoor sporting
facilities.
4. Providing informal recreation opportunities.
5. Supporting structured sporting
opportunities and club viability.
Implementation and partnerships
Based on a detailed analysis of key issues and
trends, the primary focus for the City of Greater
Dandenong will be in the following areas:

Vision
Unstructured recreation activities such as:
o walking
o swimming
o cycling
o running / jogging
Increasing female participation
Providing affordable participation
opportunities.
Recommendations for the implementation of
ACTIVATE are provided within a detailed Action
Plan and include indicative timelines that are
subject to funding availability.
These recommendations / actions will be
implemented in partnership with a range of
stakeholders such as local clubs and associations,
management agencies / providers, state sporting
associations, key agencies and peak bodies.
3
1. Introduction
Council values the role that sport and active
recreation can play in improving the health and
well-being of the people living in Greater
Dandenong. Residents will be provided with
opportunities to be involved in a wide variety of
recreation and sporting activities and to
understand the importance of active participation
and volunteering in building strong and healthy
communities.
Greater Dandenong will be characterised by a
number of well-planned, affordable and
sustainable facilities and services developed to
ensure that the needs of the changing community
are catered for. Opportunities to participate will be
the result of strong partnerships between Council,
the community and other providers.
The uniqueness of the municipality will be
celebrated and a range of activities, regardless of
age, ability, income, gender, or cultural background
will be available.
The draft Activate Sport and Active Recreation
Strategy 2014-2019 outlines plans and programs
to guide Council in its planning and decision
making with respect to the provision of sporting
services and facilities. It outlines Council’s key
priorities for recreation provision and the actions it
will take over the next four years to achieve these
priorities.
Purpose
Physical
Activity
The purpose of ACTIVATE is to develop and
increase participation in sport and active recreation
for all communities within Greater Dandenong.
This strategy is focused on developing and
increasing opportunities for sport and active
recreation, which has a direct and positive impact
on physical activity levels and on the health and
wellbeing of the community.
Sport
Active
Recreation
Process
The information contained in the strategy has been
drawn from extensive community consultation with
local and regional clubs and associations, state
sporting associations, sport and recreation
providers, schools and neighbouring Councils.
Additionally, the development of the Strategy has
involved a detailed review of:

Greater Dandenong’s current and forecast
demographic profile

national, state and local participation
trends;
relevant Council documents
an audit and analysis of all sport and
recreation facilities in Greater Dandenong.


Sport
A human activity capable of achieving a result,
requiring physical exertion and/or physical skill
which, by its nature and organisation, is
competitive and is generally accepted as being
a sport. (Australian Sports Commission)
Active Recreation
Unstructured activity that individuals freely
pursue in their leisure time for a sense of fun
that also benefits their physical, social and
emotional wellbeing.
Physical activity
An all encompassing term that includes active
living, active recreation, health related activity,
exercise, play and sport.
4
2. Benefits of sport and active recreation
Participation in sport and active recreation provides a broad range of benefits to individuals and communities.
These benefits are well researched and can be broadly grouped into the key areas of health (physical and
mental), social, environmental and economic. A summary of these benefits is provided below, which highlights
the importance of the draft Activate Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 2014-19 to the City of Greater
Dandenong.
Physical health benefits
Reduces the risk and helps to manage / treat cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, some
cancers, musculoskeletal conditions (i.e. osteoporosis), and improve weight control, sleep,
physical fitness, co-ordination and life expectancy.
Mental health benefits
Improves concentration, memory, self esteem, psychological wellbeing and a reduction in, and
management of stress, anxiety and depression.
Social benefits
Encourages family and community interaction / connections, improves social skills, networks and
integration, reduces isolation, reduces anti-social tendencies, creates safer places / communities
and strengthens community identity and pride.
Environmental benefits
Reduces traffic congestion, air pollution, greenhouse emissions and noise pollution associated
with replacing car trips with active transport (i.e. walking and cycling) and improves visual and
aesthetic values associated with enhanced open spaces and landscape amenity.
Economic benefits
Creates employment, attracts tourism, supports local business (through goods and services),
reduces absenteeism / improves productivity, encourages volunteering and provides active
transport options.
5
3. A vision for recreation
Our vision is to build active, healthy
and successful communities in the City
of Greater Dandenong through
increased participation in sport and
recreation and the provision of well
planned, accessible, affordable and
sustainable facilities.
In the future we want to see more people in the
City of Greater Dandenong enjoying the benefits
associated with a more active lifestyle.
This means:
 More people taking part in sport and active
recreation.
 More people becoming involved as
volunteers in sport and active recreation.
 Increased satisfaction with facilities and
opportunities for sport and active recreation
in the City of Greater Dandenong.
We particularly want to see:
 An increase year on year in participation in
sport and active recreation in the City of
Greater Dandenong.
 Support of existing and creation of new
sporting clubs, coaches, officials and
improved facilities to enable increased
capacity.
 Engagement of CALD communities and
other disadvantaged groups such as people
with a disability, women, girls and older
people.
Key themes and objectives
ACTIVATE has been developed in the context of the Council Plan 2013-17 and the key objectives of people, place and opportunity. These objectives provide the
basis for five key themes and associated objectives that are specific to achieving Council’s vision for sport and active recreation in the City of Greater Dandenong. A
detailed action plan has been developed for each of the five key themes which contain strategic actions that respond to identified issues.
Council Plan 2013-17 – Theme
ACTIVATE – Theme
PEOPLE
Active and engaged communities
ACTIVATE Objectives
1.
Creating engaged, connected and active communities by increasing participation
in sport and active recreation.
Indoor recreation facilities.
2.
Providing improved access to quality indoor sport and recreation facilities.
Outdoor sporting facilities.
3.
Maintaining the distribution and access to outdoor structured sporting facilities
Informal recreation opportunities.
4.
Providing informal recreation opportunities for all.
Structured sporting opportunities
and club viability.
5.
Supporting the provision of structured sporting opportunities by improving the
sustainability and financial viability of clubs.
PLACE
OPPORTUNITY
6
4. Key principles
Key principles have been developed to guide the future provision of sport and
recreation in Greater Dandenong. These principles directly respond to the
‘Social Model of Health’, which is contained within Council’s Wellbeing Plan and
provides a framework for understanding the complex social, economic and
physical conditions that impact on individual and community health and
wellbeing.
This model recognises that a number of factors contribute to building and
maintaining healthy environments, which are depicted in the diagram below.
1. AFFORDABILITY
Council will encourage participation in sport and recreation by supporting and
facilitating affordable access to a range of leisure opportunities.
2. QUALITY
Council will ensure the provision of high quality facilities / services that comply
with relevant standards and cater for community needs and expectations.
3. SUSTAINABILITY
Council will employ responsible economic, social and environmental practices
for the ongoing provision of sport and recreation facilities and services.
4. STRATEGIC PROVISION
ACTIVATE has been developed in the context of the Social Model of Heath and
aims to respond to the broad range of factors that impact on health and
wellbeing, and participation in sport and active recreation.
Council will ensure the strategic delivery of sport and active recreation facilities
and services that consider changing social conditions, trends, technologies and
community needs.
5. DIVERSE OPPORTUNITIES
Council will ensure a diverse range of structured and unstructured sport and
recreation opportunities are available to the community.
6. MAXIMUM AND MULTI USE
Council will emphasise maximum benefits through the provision of sport and
recreation facilities and services that are flexible and provide for multiple users.
7. PARTNERHSIPS
Council will work in partnership with a range of stakeholders to plan, develop,
manage, fund and operate facilities, programs and services.
8. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Council will encourage community involvement in sport and recreation facilities,
programs and services.
9. COMMUNICATION
Council will develop and utilise two-way communication strategies that inform,
create and stimulate interest and awareness.
10. EQUITABLE ACCESS
Council will ensure equitable access to leisure facilities and services by all
people regardless of age, gender, ability or cultural background.
7
5. Strategic context
ACTIVATE supports the directions of the Imagine 2030 Community Plan, Council Plan 2013-17
and Community Wellbeing Plan 2013-17, and provides direction and context for recreation
related planning documents. The following image illustrates the relationship of ACTIVATE with
other strategic planning documents within Council.
Community
Vision
Imagine 2030 Community Plan
Statutory
principal
strategic plan
City of Greater Dandenong
Council Plan 2013 - 2017
Major statutory
strategic plans
Overarching
strategy for sport
and recreation
Recreation
policies and plans
Community Wellbeing Plan 2013-17
(MAKE LOWER CASE)– Sport and Active Recreation Strategy
2014-2019
Sport and
Recreation
Participation
Study
Walking and
Cycling Plans
(proposed)
Sports Facilities
Plan 2011
Management
Policies:
Sports Pavilion
Management
Policy
Feasibility Studies:
i.e. Aquatic
Redevelopment
Options, 2008
Sports Grounds
Floodlight Policy,
2011
Sports Specific
Plans:
Football (Soccer)
Development
Plan, 2011
Tennis Plan, 2008
Lawn Bowls /
Croquet Plan,
2008
Vic Health
Strategic
Framework
Sport and
Recreation
Victoria Strategic
Framework
Active Australia
2010
External Documents:
State / Federal
Governments
The Future of
Sport in Australia
8
Council Plan, 2013-17
The Council Plan 2013-17 outlines Council’s goals,
objectives and actions for the next four years,
which are grouped into three key areas.
PEOPLE
A healthy, active and safe community
A City that celebrates its diversity with pride
The broad range of community, sport and
recreation facilities within Greater Dandenong is
testament to Council’s commitment to creating
opportunities for residents to participate in
community activities.
“Local sport and recreation clubs will be thriving
centres of social activity and gathering across all
cultures and generations”
(Imagine 2030 Community Plan)
PLACE
An environmentally sustainable City
A City planned for the future
OPPORTUNITY
A thriving and resilient economy
A proactive Council that listens and leads
ACTIVATE has been developed in the context of
the Council Plan 2013-17 which acknowledges
sport and recreation as integral to achieving a
“healthy, active and safe community”.
Council acknowledges that creating a healthy and
safe community is the core of everything we do.
Health is defined as the state of physical, mental
and social wellbeing, enabling people to live their
lives to their full potential.
Council strives to provide an abundance of
opportunities for residents to be involved in
community activities, to break down social isolation
and promote a strong sense of community.
Community Wellbeing Plan 2013-17
The Community Wellbeing Plan 2013-17 has been
developed in parallel with the Council Plan 201317 to ensure the alignment of principles and
actions to promote a healthy, active and safe
community.
The Community Wellbeing Plan 2013-17
acknowledges the importance of physical activity,
leisure and recreational opportunities in improving
health and wellbeing, encouraging social
interaction and creating healthier and more
inclusive communities.
A key goal of the Community Wellbeing Plan 201317 is “to promote healthy, affordable opportunities
for physical activity and leisure among residents of
all abilities, backgrounds and interests, coupled
with wider options for walking and cycling.”
The Community Wellbeing Plan 2013-17, in
accordance with the Council Plan identifies the
development and implementation of the draft
ACTIVATE- Sport and Active Recreation Strategy
2013-17 as a key action to increase participation in
sport and active recreation. It also includes a
number of other strategic actions, which are
consistent with those identified within this draft
strategy.
“A healthy, thriving community is one in which all of
its members enjoy optimal health in an
environment that actively promotes productive,
rewarding and socially inclusive lives.”
(Community Health and Wellbeing Plan, 2013-17)
It also acknowledges the many sport and
recreation clubs, parks, bike trails and natural open
spaces within Greater Dandenong. The Plan also
highlights the challenges associated with current
levels of inactivity, with one third of residents
engaging in limited physical activity and two thirds
not engaging in organised sport.
9
6. Sport and recreation in the
City of Greater Dandenong
The role of Council
Within the City of Greater Dandenong, Council
encourages and supports the community’s
involvement in sport and recreation by providing:






strategic planning and policy development
service and facility management, maintenance
and development
marketing, promotion and communications
research and needs analysis
liaison, support, consultation and advice to key
stakeholders
advocacy with State and Federal Government
and national / state sporting associations
regarding Greater Dandenong’s sport and
recreation needs.
Across Council a number of areas are responsible
for the provision and maintenance of sport and
recreation services and facilities. However the
Community Development, Facilities and
Recreation Department is the key area responsible
for the management, strategic planning and policy
development of sport and recreation services and
facilities.
Specialist areas across Council also provide active
programs for specific members or groups within
the community, such as Community Care for
mature and older adults and people with a
disability and Community Wellbeing for toddlers,
children and young people. These departments
work in collaboration with each other to ensure
quality and complementary services to residents of
Greater Dandenong.
sports are staged within the five major indoor
venues.
Current provision
Council notes that in addition to the sports
reserves listed, there are 100 parks, 4 bushland
areas, 105 adventure playgrounds, and 54km of
bike paths within the City of Greater Dandenong
providing fun, accessible, and well maintained
areas for the whole community to enjoy.
City of Greater Dandenong residents have access
to a high level and diverse range of recreation and
sporting opportunities, which are summarised
below.

5 Premier Level Sports Reserves hosting 10
different sports.

19 Community - Competition Level Sports
Reserves hosting 8 different sports.

7 School Sports Reserves catering for 2
sports.

13 Community / Informal Open Space
reserves.

Parks Victoria Police Paddocks – an open
reserve hosting softball, soccer and a multipurpose oval.

Five major sporting centres comprising:
o Dandenong Oasis
o Noble Park Aquatic Centre
o Springers Leisure Centre.
o Gloria Pyke Netball and Sports
Complex
o Dandenong Stadium

Mills Reserve hockey and soccer

Jan Wilson Community Centre
The total amount of public parkland accessible to
the residents and visitors of the city is
approximately 600 hectares.
The City of Greater Dandenong Community
Directory lists 91 sporting clubs across 18 different
sports and recreational activities. A further seven
10
7. Demographic profile of
Greater Dandenong
Greater Dandenong encompasses an area of 129
square kilometres in Melbourne’s south-east,
approximately 24 kilometres from the central
business district.
With an estimated 147,000 people living in 2014,
the number of residents in Greater Dandenong has
risen by almost 20,000 during the past two
decades and is forecast to rise by a further 16,000
by 2023 (Department of Planning and Community
Development).
Age profile
Greater Dandenong has a similar age profile to
that of metropolitan Melbourne, with nearly one in
four residents aged less than 18 years, one in
seven of retirement age, and the balance young
and working age adults.
0-4 years
11,143
5-11 years
11,990
11-17 years
10,003
18-24 years
13,944
25-64 years
79,678
64+ years
20,297
Total
10% increase in the number of young adults and a
surge of 13% in the population of older residents.
English fluency.
Nearly four fifths of the 47,000 households in
Greater Dandenong are families, with 30%
couples, 46% couples with children, 19% headed
by a single parent and 5% are other family types.
Three quarters of families with young children are
headed by oversees born parents from countries
such as Vietnam, Cambodia, India and Sri Lanka.
Cultural diversity
Greater Dandenong is the most culturally diverse
municipality in Victoria, and the second most
diverse in Australia, with residents from over 150
different birthplaces, well over half (60 per cent) of
its population born overseas, and 55 per cent from
nations where English is not the main spoken
language (by comparison, metropolitan Melbourne
is 26 per cent).
The diversity of the City is reflected in its blend of
religious faiths, which includes Buddism, adhered
to by 18 per cent of residents, Islam (11per cent),
Hinduism (4per cent) and Christianity (50 per cent).
In 2012/13 2,240 recently-arrived migrants settled
in Greater Dandenong, the highest number of
settlers in any Victorian municipality. A third of
these people (720) were humanitarian immigrants,
largely from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Iran and
Pakistan
147,055
A 7% rise in the number of children during the
forthcoming decade is forecast, coupled with a
Number
Residents
by Birthplace,
2011have limited
Khmerof and
Chinese
languages
One in seven residents - accounting for 19,000
people or 14 per cent of the population, has limited
fluency in spoken English, which is four times the
metropolitan level of 4per cent Substantial
numbers of residents who speak Vietnamese,
Other characteristics
Approximately 6.6 per cent of people in Greater
Dandenong were living with a severe or profound
disability, requiring daily assistance with mobility,
communication or self-care (compared with 5%
across metropolitan Melbourne).
A lower proportion of people from Greater
Dandenong engage in voluntary work on a regular
basis (11 per cent), compared with 19 cent across
Victoria.
In 2011, the median weekly gross income among
Greater Dandenong residents was $395, the
11
lowest level in Melbourne and 67% of the
metropolitan average.

Implications to sport and recreation
provision
The demographic profile of Greater Dandenong
has a number of implications to sport and
recreation provision.



Forecast population growth will place
increasing pressure on sport and recreation
infrastructure and services.
There will be a continuing demand for a range
of leisure activities and facilities, with
approximately 3 out of 10 residents aged in
their most active years (0 to 24 years).
However an increasing focus will also be
required to ensure services are provided for
an ageing population.
Greater Dandenong’s high level of cultural
diversity will require consideration of a range
of factors such as:
o Cultural influences on sport and
recreation preferences (i.e. as
demonstrated by Greater Dandenong’s
high soccer participation levels).
o Consideration of language barriers and
religious beliefs / customs when
promoting, programming and facilitating
leisure activities.
o The role of sport and recreation in
engaging newly arrived immigrants and
fostering social connections.
Low levels of disposable income impact on
access and participation in a range of
recreation activities. Fees and charges to
access leisure facilities and activities therefore
need to be set at an affordable level to
encourage participation.

The high proportion of people with a disability
highlights the importance of providing
accessible and inclusive facilities, programs
and services that cater for all abilities.

A low level of volunteerism in Greater
Dandenong presents a challenge for sporting
clubs in recruiting and retaining sufficient
numbers of coaches, officials and
administrators.
8. Sport and recreation trends
Participation trends
Over one third of residents in Greater Dandenong
(aged 18 years and over) do not meet the
recommended levels of participation in physical
activity, being ‘30 minutes of moderate intensity
activity on most, preferably all days’ (as per
National Physical Activity Guidelines for
Australians). This level of inactivity (34.7 %) is
higher than the State average of 27.4 %.
Females have a higher level of inactivity than
males, with 35.8 % not meeting physical activity
guidelines, compared to 31.9 % of males in
Greater Dandenong. (Source: Victorian Population
Health Survey – Greater Dandenong Modelling, 2013)
When reviewing participation trends in exercise,
recreation and sport, 47.7 % of Australians aged
15 years and over participate in ‘regular’ activity (at
least three times per week or more, on average).
Among males, there was little difference in regular
participation rates between those who speak
English only at home (44.7%) and those who
speak a non-European language at home (45.0
per cent). Both groups had slightly lower regular
participation rates than males who speak a
European language at home (49.3%)
Among females, those who speak a non-European
language at home had the lowest regular
participation rates (39.0%), especially when
compared to those who speak English only at
home (51.5%).
(Source: 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey)
12
A study into the involvement of Greater
Dandenong residents in sport and recreation
activities was undertaken in 2011. This study,
which is scheduled to be updated in 2014, allows
comparisons to be made to national and state
trends.
The following table details Greater Dandenong’s
20 most popular activities for residents aged 15
years and older, compared to national and state
participation trends. The following key observations
are noted from this comparison.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Facilities / services being too far away;
Lack of time;
Unable to afford it; and
Lack of information and knowledge
Most popular
activities
for persons aged 15 yrs +
CGD
Vic
Aust
Participation rate %
Walking
52
36.6
35.9
Swimming
32
13.5
13.0
Cycling
19
12.7
11.9
Running / Jogging
16
12.7
10.6
Basketball
13
4.8
3.5
Football - Soccer
12
3.5
4.8
Tennis
11
6.8
6.0
 Activities such as basketball, football
(soccer) and dance are ranked higher in the
Greater Dandenong survey, compared to
national and state averages.
Ballet / Dance
10
2.1
2.6
Gym / aerobics / fitness
10
24.7
23.5
Yoga
8
4.3
3.5
 Gym / aerobics / fitness activities ranked
lower in the Greater Dandenong survey than
the national and state average, in addition to
golf and Australian rules football (at a state
level).
Badminton
6
1.4
0.7
Golf
6
7.3
6.7
Fishing
5
1.6
2.2
Volleyball
5
1.2
1.1
Cricket
5
3.5
3.2
Netball
5
3.8
3.7
Ten Pin Bowling
4
0.6
0.6
Football – Aust. Rules
4
5.4
3.3
Weight Lifting / Training
4
2.4
2.9
Table Tennis
3
0.8
0.6
 Walking for recreation was identified as the
most popular activity at a national, state and
local level.
 Swimming, running and cycling are all within
the top five most popular activities at a
national, state and local level.
The most popular activities differ in popularity and
participation rates between females and males,
however they share eight of the top ten most
participated in activities. Differences include ballet /
dance, yoga and netball for females, and golf,
cricket, football (Australian Rules) and fishing for
males.
The participation study also identified the major
barriers to participation amongst Greater
Dandenong residents which included:
The top three activities that residents would like to
do but cannot are swimming, ballet / dance and
tennis.
A separate survey of students aged 12 to 17 years
was conducted in 2012 to determine levels of
participation in sport outside school hours. A
comparison of these results with National
participation levels indicates:
 Greater Dandenong has lower levels of
participation in organised sport outside school
hours (53% compared to 63%).
 Walking and running were identified as the
most popular activities at a local level, but not
identified as popular sport or recreation
activities in the national surveys.
 Activities such as basketball, football (soccer),
badminton, table tennis and volleyball are
ranked higher for young people in Greater
Dandenong, than national averages.
 Activities such as Australian Rules Football,
cricket and hockey are ranked lower than in
national averages amongst young people.
 Swimming, dancing, netball and basketball
are all within the top eight most popular
activities at a national and local level.
Within Greater Dandenong soccer, basketball,
netball, swimming, badminton, volleyball and
martial arts were identified as the sports that
children would like to participate in.
Non-participation in activities was attributed to lack
of facilities, lack of information, cost and available
time.
Source: CGD Sport and Recreation Participation Study
2011 and 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey for
persons aged 15 years +
13
General trends
A broad range of factors impact on health and
wellbeing and participation in sport and recreation.
The following information identifies a range of
trends and challenges to participation in sport and
recreation activities in Victoria. These trends have
been grouped under five key headings, which are
consistent with the key components outlined within
the Social Model of Health.
 Facilities: Maintaining and developing
facilities is a major challenge for the sport and
recreation industry, creating potential for new
partnership opportunities and multi-sport /
recreational developments in the future.
 Sustainable development of leisure and
sporting facilities in response to community
demand for more sustainable and eco-friendly
infrastructure.
LIVING AND WORKING CONDITIONS
GENERAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC, CULTURAL
AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
 Desire for affordable activities by those with
limited resources. The development of multipurpose leisure centres has enabled activities
with high operating costs (i.e. aquatics) to be
cross subsidised by more profitable activities
(i.e. health and fitness), enabling entry fees to
be kept low to encourage greater use.
 Increased community expectation for high
quality facilities and services, which has led to
a greater demand for higher investment and
programming costs. This also indicates that
building low standard, low cost facilities will
not attract the maximum user market.
 Increased variety in sport and recreation
options through the introduction of newer,
more varied activities, offered over a greater
range of timeframes. This has supported the
trend towards multi-use facilities to attract a
broader range of users and multiple programs
High levels of population diversity also
requires a varied range of programs and
services to cater for different age groups,
genders, abilities, cultural backgrounds and
interests.
SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY NETWORKS
 The supply of volunteers, often the lifeblood
of any club or association is under increasing
pressure and new initiatives are needed to
encourage and support volunteerism.
 Well trained personnel: Recruiting and
retaining paid staff and volunteers is critical to
club operations. Additionally, volunteers
require access to training in a flexible delivery
model that responds to their busy lives.
 Competition for participants: Many sports
face competition from larger / higher profile
sports and other forms of entertainment. A
key challenge for many sports is the
recruitment of participants from an early age,
and the retention of recruits beyond their midteen years.
 Constraints to sport and recreation
participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities,
family and work constraints, health problems
and affordability are the main constraints to
participation. The development of targeted
user markets and services at many aquatic
and leisure centres has helped to reduce
some of these constraints.
INDIVIDUAL LIFESTYLE FACTORS
 Changing employment structures, trading
and work hours often makes participation in
traditional sport and recreation activities
difficult, and casual / informal participation
opportunities more attractive.
 Increased recognition of strong links
between physical activity and health which
are becoming a larger part of people’s activity
choices.
 Flexibility in the times when people
participate in active leisure in response to
increasing demands on people’s time. More
people are seeking to participate in sport and
recreation at different times, for focused short
periods, over a broad spread of hours and at
facilities that offer a variety of activities at the
one venue.
 A gradual aging of the population which is
placing a new demand on providing specific
programs for older people.
 Expectations of equity and access for
people with special needs in public facilities.
This has seen improved design features to
increase accessibility to and within such
facilities. Added to this is the growing array of
programs and activities offered to people of all
different abilities, physical condition and skill
levels.
14
Implications to sport and recreation
provision
State-wide trends in sport and recreation impact on
participation at a local level and help identify key
priorities for sport and recreation in the City of
Greater Dandenong.

National, state and local trends highlight the
popularity of walking, swimming, cycling
and jogging / running as the preferred
means of engaging in physical activity. These
activities should therefore be a key focus
within the City of Greater Dandenong, through
ongoing investment in paths / trails and
aquatic and leisure centres, to encourage
greater participation in such activities.

The lower levels of participation in physical
activity amongst females highlight the
ongoing need for greater access to sport and
recreation facilities and services. I.e. female
change facilities to allow participation in
traditionally male dominated sports, flexible
participation options and program initiatives).

Affordability is a key consideration for
residents and highlights the continuing need
for subsidised facilities and programs (such as
those provided at Council’s leisure centres)
and highlights an ongoing challenge for clubs
and service providers.

Increasingly busy lifestyles places highlights
the need for flexible participation
opportunities i.e. through modified programs
and services, flexible scheduling and opening
hours and casual / social membership
packages. The availability of spaces and
facilities for unstructured recreation
activities is also important, in addition to multiuse facilities that can be used for a range of
unstructured and structured activities, and
cater for the diverse needs of the community.
15
9. Action Plan
This section of the report consolidates the findings
from the extensive research and consultation
process undertaken, to provide the framework and
recommendations for the draft Activate -Sport and
Active Recreation Strategy 2014-19.
The strategic actions contained on the following
pages have been grouped into five key themes
that are specific to achieving Council’s vision for
sport and active recreation in Greater Dandenong.
These key themes include;
1. Active and engaged communities
2. Indoor recreation facilities
3. Outdoor sporting facilities
4. Informal recreation opportunities
5. Structured sporting opportunities and club
viability
Strategic actions have been developed in
accordance with key principles for recreation and
Councils key directions identified in the City of
Greater Dandenong Council Plan -17.
The action plan contains an introduction to each
theme including the objective, rationale,
background / current situation and summary of key
issues and opportunities identified through
consultation, research and facility audits.
Strategic actions include key indicators to measure
success, in addition to the lead responsibility,
project partners and indicative timelines, which will
be subject to funding availability.
Council’s Community Development, Facilities and
Recreation Department, and more specifically the
Sport and Recreation Unit (S&R) will primarily be
responsible for implementing the action plan and
the majority of strategic actions.
A significant number of project partners and
stakeholders will also be involved in the
implementation process. These partners are listed
in the Action Plan and include:
 Local clubs
 Local associations and leagues
 Management Agency / Providers at
Council’s indoor sport / leisure centres
 Agencies i.e. Adult Multicultural Education
Services (AMES), Centre for Multicultural
Youth (CMY), Mission Australia, Monash
Health
 Private and commercial providers, local
businesses
 Local schools, colleges and universities
 National and State Sporting Associations
i.e. Australian Football League, Netball
Victoria, Football Federation Victoria etc.
 Peak bodies: VicSport, VicHealth, Victoria
Walks, Bicycle Network
 Government Departments: Sport and
Recreation Victoria (SRV), Department of
Education
 Other / neighbouring Councils
 Other Council Departments/Units such as:
o
Media and Communications
o
Community Wellbeing, including
Youth and Family Services, MCH and
Children’s Services
o
Community Care
o
Community Development, including
Health and Wellbeing
o
Strategic Planning
o
Urban Design and Open Space
o
Festivals and Events
o
Revitalising Central Dandenong Unit
The Action Plan contains a high number of actions
that encompass a broad range of sport and
recreation activities. Priorities have been assigned
to each action over a four year period, however
based on a detailed analysis of key issues and
trends within Greater Dandenong, the primary
focus for Council will be in the following areas:

unstructured recreation activities such as:
o walking
o swimming
o cycling
o running / jogging

increasing female participation, and

providing affordable participation
opportunities
16
Theme 1: Active and engaged
communities
Objective: Creating engaged, connected and
active communities by increasing
participation in sport and active recreation.
Rationale
Participation in sport and active recreation is
fundamental to the health and wellbeing of
individuals and communities. In addition to the
direct health benefits derived from physical activity,
sport and recreation activities provide opportunities
for social connections and community
engagement, which is particularly important for
Greater Dandenong’s unique and culturally diverse
community.
Background
The review of sport and recreation provision in
Greater Dandenong indicates a strong emphasis
on facility provision.
Promoting increased participation in physical
activity is a priority for both the Victorian and
Australian Government, due to a decline in
physical activity levels which has potential to
contribute to a number of health problems and
conditions.
Key issues and opportunities
A range of key themes effecting participation in
sport and recreation were identified through the
consultation and are listed below.
 Pressures on volunteerism and sport and
recreation organisation management.
 Support of emerging sports.
Many actions contained within the Theme 1, relate
to actions contained within the Community Health
and Wellbeing Plan.
Such actions include 2.1.2, 2.1.9, 2.1.13, which
aim to increase physical activity levels and
promote physical activity for residents, especially
amongst school children older adults, girls and
women.
 Strategies to make participation more
affordable.
 Opportunities to retain/increase participation
for the following market segments:
o
o
o
o
o
Young people (aged 15-18 yrs)
People with disabilities
Older adults
Young Children
Women
 Understanding cultural differences, needs
and interests.
 Understanding and catering for general
leisure trends impacting on sport and
recreation participation and facilities.
 Increasing awareness of benefits of
participation and opportunities to be involved
in sport and recreation activities.
A number of sport-specific issues and opportunities
have also been identified, which are addressed
within other sections of this report.
The development of sport and recreation facilities
supports Government’s Health Planning
Frameworks by proving activity outlets for targeted
programs and services to assist people to become
more active.
17
Objective 1 - Creating engaged, connected and active communities by increasing participation in sport and active recreation.
Strategic Actions
Indicators
1.1
Update the Sport and Recreation Participation Study with the aim to:
- provide up-to-date information and trends on sport and recreation
participation in the City of Greater Dandenong;
- monitor physical activity levels amongst residents (in accordance with the
National Physical Activity Guidelines); and
- inform strategic planning projects and Council priorities.
Revised Sport and Recreation
Participation Study.
1.2
Develop a brand and marketing strategy to increase awareness and information
about the range of available sport and recreation programs, services and facilities
using a range of tools such as:
 Social media – facebook, twitter, SMS
 Website
 Electronic newsletter
 Maps and brochures
 ‘Come and try’ days
Include resources to facilitate more effective communication between sport and
recreation providers, local clubs and CALD communities.
1.3
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Year 1-2
S&R
-
Number of promotional strategies /
materials developed.
Year 1-2
S&R
Media and Comms / Health
and Wellbeing, Community
Development
Develop a database and online directory of sport and recreation opportunities
including clubs and community and commercial providers.
Database and on-line directory
developed.
Year 1-2
S&R
Media and Comms, Clubs,
State Sporting Associations
1.4
Continue to promote and provide accessible and inclusive sport and recreation
opportunities for people with a disability by:
 Ensuring the provision of accessible facilities and infrastructure;
 Providing and promoting modified games; and
 Ensure clubs are welcoming and inclusive of people with disabilities and
encourage the development of all ability teams.
Facilities compliant with DDA
standards
Increased number of all ability teams.
Year 1-4
S&R
State Sporting Associations,
Clubs
1.5
Work in collaboration with the Community Care Department to develop innovative
opportunities to engage older people in recreation activities.
No of programs for older residents
implemented.
Year 1-4
S&R
Community Care
1.6
Develop a women’s sport and recreation program aimed at increasing female
participation levels, including:
 A women’s event at Greaves Reserve aimed at increasing female
participation levels in a range of sport and active recreation activities.
 Annual programs focusing on specific sports (i.e. Year 1 - women’s
cricket)
Number of women’s projects / events
implemented
Year 1-4
S&R
Youth Services, Clubs,
State Sporting Associations
18
Objective 1 - Creating engaged, connected and active communities by increasing participation in sport and active recreation.
Strategic Actions
Indicators
1.7
Develop a Sport Events Plan that identifies opportunities to bid for and host a
range of major regional, state and national events.
Number of major events held in CGD.
1.8
Continue the annual Community Sport Festival to promote clubs and sporting
opportunities within the City of Greater Dandenong.
1.9
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Year 3-4
S&R
Events and Festivals, SRV,
State Sporting Associations.
No of partners involved in the event
Year 1-4
S&R
Events and Festivals, Clubs,
State Sporting Associations
Conduct ‘sport activation events’ in the civic square that are linked to major events
e.g. Australian Open.
Activation event/s held
Year 1-4
S&R
Events, Media and Comms,
Clubs, State Sporting
Associations
1.10
Work with Universities and Colleges to increase participation in sport and active
recreation amongst students.
No of tertiary students active
Year 3-4
S&R
Universities, Colleges
1.11
Undertake an annual benchmarking exercise with other councils regarding fees
and charges.
Benchmarking study undertaken
Year 1-4
S&R
1.12
Seek sponsorship for events and programs that help increase participation in sport
and active recreation.
No. of sponsors attracted
Year 1-4
S&R
Other Councils,
Vic Sport
Economic Development,
Local businesses
1.13
Investigate opportunities for privately owned facilities to address the needs of
community sport and recreation.
Investigation undertaken.
Joint initiatives undertaken
Year 1-3
S&R
Economic Development,
Private Providers
1.14
Actively seek available grant opportunities to fund sport and recreation projects /
programs that will help increase participation, especially from target groups.
No of grants sought
Year 1- 4
S&R, H&WB
Comm. Eng.
Government departments,
agencies, peak bodies.
1.15
Work with key stakeholders to investigate innovative and flexible participation
opportunities such as social / casual membership packages (i.e. casual pay and
play) to make it easier for people to participate in sport and recreation activities.
Investigation undertaken
Year 1- 4
S&R
Providers, Management
Agency, Clubs, State
Sporting Associations
1.16
Investigate the potential establishment of a sport and recreation advisory
committee involving key stakeholders representatives from various target groups to
periodically meet and discuss key issues, trends and partnership opportunities
relating to sport and active recreation participation in Greater Dandenong.
Investigation undertaken.
Establishment of sport and recreation
advisory committee (pending
outcome of investigation process)
Year 2
S&R
External partners
1.17
Investigate the establishment of a regional forum involving other local government
authorities (LGAs) and key stakeholders to address common issues and potential
future strategic opportunities effecting sport and recreation in the broader region.
Regional group established.
Year 2-3
VicSport
Other Councils
S&R
1.18
Collect, collate and review participation and membership statistics from local clubs
and Sporting Associations each year, as a means of monitoring participation trends
and the impact of programming initiatives.
Annual review of participation and
membership statistics
Year 1-4
S&R
Clubs and Associations
19
Theme 2: Indoor recreation facilities
Objective: Providing improved access to
quality indoor sport and recreation facilities
Rationale
Indoor sport and recreation centres provide yearround access to a diverse range of sport and
recreation opportunities. Such facilities encourage
participation from a broad cross section of the
community by providing flexible participation
opportunities (i.e. through long opening hours) and
by providing a combination of structured and
unstructured programs, activities and competitions.
Background
Within the City of Greater Dandenong there are six
major indoor sport / leisure facilities owned by
Council.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Dandenong Oasis
Noble Park Aquatic Centre – NPAC
Dandenong Stadium
Gloria Pyke Netball Complex
Springers Leisure Centre
Mills Reserve Hockey/Soccer
In addition to providing for a range of aquatic,
health and fitness activities, these facilities are
used by a range of sporting clubs / associations for
training and competition. Sports currently provided
for at the centres include:




Badminton
Basketball
Indoor Hockey
Indoor Soccer





Netball
Squash
Swimming
Table Tennis
Volleyball
Key issues and opportunities
Major facilities:
Dandenong Oasis is a highly valued but aged
facility that has varied levels of attendance and
membership. Previous studies have identified the
need to redevelop the Centre which requires
further detailed planning.
Noble Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC) is a popular,
state of the art facility that has increasing
attendance and membership levels and has the
capacity to offer a diverse range of programs.
Springers Leisure Centre is a well used multipurpose facility that has the capacity to expand
and cater for a broader range of activities and the
growing needs of the surrounding community.
Dandenong Stadium / State Volleyball Centre is
recognised as a major / regional centre however
continued efforts are required to maximise court
usage (especially at off-peak times) and to ensure
the Stadium retains regional and State events.
Gloria Pyke Netball and Sports Complex is
home to the Dandenong Netball Association and
has potential for increased utilisation (particularly
at off-peak times), new programming initiatives and
to serve to as a major regional centre.
Council’s community centres also provide a range
of health and fitness activities for the community.
Indoor activities:
Badminton has a major facility at Springers
Leisure Centre which has capacity for increased
participation, programming and development.
Basketball participation in Greater Dandenong is
significantly higher than State / National levels, but
has potential for further growth by capturing the
high level of interest from new arrivals.
Netball participation in Greater Dandenong is
impacted by the high number of people from CALD
communities who are not familiar with the sport,
which presents opportunities for new initiatives and
modified programs.
Squash participation is declining and courts are
underutilised.
Swimming is the second most popular activity in
Greater Dandenong, which primarily relates to
recreational swimming, as opposed to structured
swimming activities. There is an ongoing need for
affordable learn to swim programs in Greater
Dandenong and potential for improved pathways
into club activities and competitive swimming.
Table tennis in Greater Dandenong is governed
by the Dandenong Table Tennis Association which
has one of the largest memberships in
metropolitan Melbourne. However there is a need
to assess the suitability of facilities to meet current
and future demand.
20
Volleyball. Greater Dandenong is home to the
State Volleyball Centre however ongoing efforts
are needed to increase court utilisation.
Health and fitness activities are offered at
Council’s major leisure centres and a number of
private venues throughout the municipality.

Gym, aerobics and fitness activities are
popular activities in Greater Dandenong,
however participation rates are significantly
lower than national and state levels,
highlighting potential for new initiatives
around programming, promotion, access
and affordability.

Despite high participation levels (compared
to the state and national averages), dance
and ballet were identified by residents as
one of three activities they would like to do.

Yoga / pilates is also a popular activity in
Greater Dandenong.
Other indoor sport and recreation activities.
Opportunities exist for a range of other sport and
recreation activities to be provided for at the
Centres, in an effort to diversify the range of
available participation opportunities. Such activities
may include indoor soccer / futsal, handball,
modified games etc.
The actions contained with Theme 1 have a direct
relationship to Action 2.1.10 in the Community
Health and Wellbeing Plan: “Promote Council’s
leisure and aquatic centres for all residents to
encourage utilisation of the centres and encourage
healthy lifestyles”
21
Objective 2 - Providing improved access to quality indoor sport and recreation facilities – major facilities
Strategic Actions
2.1
2.2
General – All Centres
Continue to work with Centre managers to maximise use of indoor leisure centres
and provide a diverse range of high quality programs and services for the
community.
Work with management at Council’s major leisure centres to provide low cost entry
and / or programs targeting specific disadvantaged groups (i.e. asylum seekers).
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Ongoing support provided
Year 1-4
Leisure
Services
Management Agency,
Providers
Number of attendees from target
groups.
Year 1-4
S&R
Management Agency,
AMES, Community Orgs
2.3
Conduct bi-annual workshops with all stadium managers to address common
issues and identify potential future opportunities (including cross centre
promotions).
Workshops held
Year 2-4
S&R
Management Agency,
Providers
2.4
Continue to support and promote health, fitness and educational programs
provided at Council’s community centres / facilities.
Ongoing promotion and activities
Year 1-4
Community
Facilities
Community Organisations
/ providers
S&R
Sport and Recreation
Victoria, Management
Agency
Dandenong Oasis
2.5
2.6
Review the Redevelopment Options Report completed in 2008 to guide the future
development of Dandenong Oasis.
Undertake the next planning phase for the Centre (pending the outcome of the
redevelopment options), including:
 Interim actions
 Schematic and detailed designs
 Capital costs estimates
 Business planning and management models
Revised redevelopment report
prepared.
Year 2
Detailed planning undertaken.
To be
determined
Identify opportunities to increase utilisation of the squash courts at the Centre to
maximise usage.
Increased utilisation of squash courts.
Year 2-3
S&R
Management Agency,
Squash Victoria
Increased programming and
attendance.
Year 1-4
S&R
Management Agency
Feasibility study undertaken.
Year 3
S&R
Management Agency,
State Sporting
Noble Park Aquatic Centre
2.7
Ensure the provision of a diverse range of programs, to continue to increase
Centre attendance and utilisation.
Springers Leisure Centre
2.8
Undertake a feasibility study to identify future development opportunities at
Springers Leisure Centre (in conjunction with the proposed investigations at
22
Objective 2 - Providing improved access to quality indoor sport and recreation facilities – major facilities
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Council’s other dry leisure centres).
Partners
Associations
Dandenong Stadium / State Volleyball Centre
2.9
Continue to work with Basketball Victoria, Dandenong Basketball Association
(DBA) and Volleyball Victoria to maximise court usage, especially at off peak
times.
Explore multi–use options for use by other sports such as netball and soccer.
Increased utilisation of court space.
Year 1-4
S&R
DBA, Volleyball Victoria
2.10
Undertake a feasibility study into the future operation of Dandenong Stadium
including a review of the strategic direction and potential future expansion
opportunities. (To be undertaken in conjunction with proposed investigations at
other dry leisure centres.)
Feasibility study undertaken.
Year 3
S&R
DBA, NBL, Volleyball
Victoria
2.11
Monitor and review facilities and amenities to ensure the Stadium retains its
position as a regional facility with the capacity to host regional and state events.
Work with National Basketball League (NBL) to maximise use of stadium and
community benefits (pending the development of an NBL South East Regional
Team).
Number of regional and state events
held at the Stadium.
Year 1-4
S&R
DBA, NBL, Volleyball
Victoria
Gloria Pyke Netball Complex
2.12
Work with Netball Victoria, Netball Australia and the Dandenong Netball
Association (DNA) to review the potential for the Complex to be a major regional
facility.
Review undertaken.
Year 2-3
S&R
DNA, Netball Victoria,
Netball Australia
2.13
Work with Dandenong Netball Association to actively promote the facility for
alternative use in off peak times (e.g. five-aside soccer).
Increased utilisation rates at off peak
times.
Year 1-2
S&R
DNA, Netball Victoria
2.14
Work with Netball Victoria and the Association to develop and promote the multi
cultural and all abilities program.
Number of people participating from
CALD communities.
Number of all abilities teams.
Year 1
Netball Victoria
S&R, Dandenong Netball
Association
2.15
Undertake a feasibility study into the future operation of the Complex including a
review of the strategic direction and potential future expansion opportunities. (To
be undertaken in conjunction with proposed investigations at other dry leisure
centres.)
Feasibility study undertaken.
Year 3
S&R
DNA, Netball Victoria
23
Objective 2 - Providing improved access to quality indoor sporting and recreation facilities – indoor activities
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Badminton
2.16
Continue to work in collaboration with South East Badminton Association (SEBA)
and Badminton Victoria to identify additional opportunities to deliver badminton
programs and activities.
Number of new badminton programs
implemented.
Year 2-3
S&R
SEBA, Badminton Victoria,
Management Agency
Basketball
2.17
Investigate the feasibility of implementing a range of informal basketball programs
initiatives (i.e. midnight basketball “pick up” games) for at risk youth and other
target groups.
Investigation undertaken
Year 3-4
S&R
Elite Events, Dandenong
Basketball Association
2.18
Encourage and support local basketball associations to promote and implement a
range of basketball programs to residents from CALD backgrounds and other
target groups.
Number of basketball programs
conducted.
Year 2-4
Basketball
Victoria
Elite Events, Dandenong
Basketball Association
Netball
2.19
Encourage and support the netball association to promote and implement a range
of modified netball programs to residents from CALD backgrounds.
Number of netball programs conducted.
Year 1-2
Netball Victoria
Netball Victoria, local
community groups
2.20
Work in collaboration with key stakeholders / providers to initiate a range of
programs to encourage increased female participation such as the “Return to
Netball” program and continuation of the “Dream Catcher” program.
Number of targeted initiatives
conducted.
Year 1-4
Netball Victoria
S&R, Dandenong Netball
Association, private
providers
Swimming
2.21
Work with key providers to continue to provide affordable swimming programs for
targeted groups.
Number of participants from target
group/s.
Year 1-2
S&R
Management Agency,
Private Providers
2.22
Develop and implement strategies to strengthen the link between casual /
recreational swimming and formal club participation.
Increase participation in formal club
activities
Year 2-4
S&R
Management Agency,
Swimming Club/s
2.23
Explore programming initiatives to increase participation in aquatic activities,
sports and games (e.g. water polo)
Number of initiatives undertaken
Year 3-4
S&R
Management Agency,
Private Providers
Year 1
S&R
SRV, Table Tennis
Victoria, Clubs,
Management Agency
Table Tennis
2.24
Undertake a feasibility study in consultation with key stakeholders to assess the
future needs and requirements of Table Tennis in Greater Dandenong.
Completion of Table Tennis Feasibility
Study.
24
Objective 2 - Providing improved access to quality indoor sporting and recreation facilities – indoor activities
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Volleyball
2.25
Encourage and support Volleyball Victoria to promote and implement a range of
programs to residents including those from CALD backgrounds.
No of volleyball programs, competitions
and events
Year 2-4
Volleyball
Victoria
S&R, Management
Agency, Providers
Pilot programs conducted
Year 2-4
Volleyball
Victoria
S&R, Management
Agency, Providers
Other sports
2.26
Pilot programs for minority / non-traditional sports in an effort to diversify the range
of available indoor sport and recreational opportunities (i.e. handball, 5-aside
soccer , modified games etc.)
25
Theme 3: Outdoor sporting facilities
Objective: Maintain the distribution and
access to quality outdoor structured
sporting facilities.
Rationale
Outdoor sporting facilities cater for a broad range
of sporting clubs and groups, who utilise facilities
for training and competition purposes, in addition
to informal activities. Such facilities cater for a high
numbers of residents and visitors by providing
opportunities for grass roots participation through
to high level / elite competition.
Background
Greater Dandenong residents have access to an
extensive range of outdoor sporting reserves and
structured sporting facilities across the City.
The results of the participation survey indicate that
residents already have high levels of participation
in outdoor activities particularly those, which are
unstructured and allow casual participation.
The review of outdoor sporting activities indicates
that the current needs are being satisfied by the
current provision of outdoor sporting reserves.
However the growth in some sports such as soccer
and the potential land use changes in the southern
part of the municipality from agricultural and
industrial to residential use will place significant
pressure on Council to provide additional facilities.
The potential purchase of existing agricultural land
in the southern part of the municipality should be
explored to “future proof” and plan for future sport
and recreational needs. Additionally, the potential
to make use of the Council land on the corner of
Brady Road and Stud Road (opposite the
Dandenong Stadium) for recreation and sporting
use should also be further investigated.
A ‘Sports Facility Plan’ (scheduled for review)
contains a prioritised plan for the progressive
improvement of outdoor sporting facilities and
associated infrastructure in Greater Dandenong.
Key issues and opportunities
Athletics Participation levels have fluctuated over
recent years and improved pathways are needed
from Little Athletics to Senior Athletics. Facilities at
Ross Reserve are of high standard, but are not
compliant for field events and major competitions.
Australian Rules Football This sport has a
strong presence in Greater Dandenong but
participation levels have declined over recent
years. Many facilities need upgrading (i.e. lighting)
and separate amenities are required for female
participants. Opportunities exist to increase
participation amongst juniors, women, CALD and
indigenous groups.
provides an opportunity to improve cricketing
infrastructure throughout the City.
Hockey The recruitment of hockey players from
Greater Dandenong is challenging and ongoing
efforts are required to promote the sport and
diversify the range of programs offered. The
investigation into a regional hockey facility has also
been identified.
Lawn Bowls and Croquet Council developed a
Lawn Bowls / Croquet Plan in 2008, which
assessed the long term sustainability of lawn bowls
and croquet and provided strategic directions for
future facility needs.
Rugby Greater Dandenong has one rugby league
club and ongoing support is required to grow rugby
codes in the municipality.
Tennis Council developed a Tennis Plan in 2008,
which outlined a ten year capital works plan and
strategies to assist club development.
Baseball Participation levels have increased and
there is potential to upgrade facilities to a regional
standard at Robert Booth Reserve.
Soccer has experienced significant growth within
Greater Dandenong and there is an increasing
demand for facilities from informal participation to
National Premier League teams. A trend towards
year round delivery is a challenge for Council.
Capital works priorities include increasing the
capacity of venues through the installation artificial
turf and upgrading pavilions to accommodate
increased participation by females and juniors.
Cricket Participation has seen a recent increase
and opportunities exist for clubs to build their
membership by recruiting from multicultural
communities and female participants. Cricket
Australia’s Community Facility Grants Program
Several actions within Theme 3 relate to actions
contained within the Community Health and Wellbeing
Plan, including 2.1.14 – the implementation of the Sports
Facilities Plan and 2.1.12 – the implementation of the
Tennis and Lawn Bowls / Croquet Plans.
26
Objective 3 – Maintaining the distribution and access to quality outdoor structured sporting facilities
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
3.1
Review the Sports Facilities Plan to guide the progressive improvement of outdoor
sporting facilities and supporting infrastructure in Greater Dandenong.
Revised Sports Facilities Plan
prepared.
Year 1
S&R
State Sporting
Associations, Clubs
3.2
Develop design standards for all ovals and pavilions, and review lighting
requirements in accordance with the Sports Facilities Plan review.
Revised Sports Facilities Plan
prepared.
Year 1-2
S&R
State Sporting
Associations, Clubs
3.3
Implement recommendations in accordance with revised plan and funding
availability, including the progressive upgrade of dated amenities and provision of
facilities for female participants.
Progressive implementation of Sports
Facility Plan.
Year 1-4
S&R
Engineering
State Sporting
Associations, Clubs
3.4
Work with relevant stakeholders to explore opportunities and demand for the
establishment of sports currently not represented in Greater Dandenong such as
rugby union, gridiron, lacrosse, handball etc.
Consultation with relevant stakeholders
Year 3-4
S&R
National / State Sporting
Associations
Athletics
3.5
Work with local clubs and state associations to identify opportunities to increase
participation and awareness of athletics programs across the municipality.
Increased promotional campaigns and
participation levels.
Year 2-3
AV, VLAA,
clubs
S&R
3.6
Explore options for the development of portable / other facilities to enable major
events / competitions to be held at Ross Reserve.
Options explored
Year 3-4
S&R
Athletics Victoria, Little
Athletics Victoria, Clubs
3.7
Work with existing clubs and state associations to establish better pathways
between existing clubs.
Increased retention rates from little
athletics to senior athletics.
Year 3-4
S&R
Athletics Victoria, Little
Athletics Victoria, Clubs
Australian Rules Football
3.8
Work closely with the AFL, the Southern Football League (SFL), associations and
clubs to encourage the continued growth amongst:
 juniors
 females
 people with disabilities
Increased junior, female and all-abilities
participation levels
Year 1-4
S&R
AFL, Southern Football
League, Clubs
3.9
Continue to develop Shepley Oval as a regional facility, through the completion of
building works and other priorities in accordance with the approved master plan
and Sports Facilities Plan.
Completion of building works
Year 1-4
S&R
Engineering
AFL, SFL, Cricket Vic,
DDCA, Dandenong
Stingrays
3.10
Establish indigenous and multi-cultural Australian Rules football programs at
Shepley Reserve in conjunction with AFL Victoria.
No of multicultural and indigenous
programs
Year 1-4
AFL
AFL, SFL
Dandenong Stingrays
3.11
Establish a female AFL Academy at Shepley Reserve in conjunction with AFL
Women’s academy established.
Year 2-3
AFL
AFL, SFL, Dandenong
27
Objective 3 – Maintaining the distribution and access to quality outdoor structured sporting facilities
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Victoria, including the proposed TAC Cup Development Squad to support a
pathway for young women.
3.12
Work with the AFL to help create pathways between school programs and local
clubs
Partners
Stingrays
Involvement of clubs in school
programs
Year 2-4
AFL
S&R, Clubs
Baseball
3.13
Liaise with Baseball Victoria to explore opportunities for the future development of
baseball within the municipality, including increasing female participation.
Number of new initiatives.
Year 3-4
S&R
Baseball Victoria
3.14
Progressively undertake facility improvements at Robert Booth Reserve in
accordance with Sports Facilities Plan, to improve conditions for local clubs.
Progressive upgrade of facilities.
Year 1-4
S&R
Baseball Victoria
3.15
Liaise with Baseball Victoria to review the potential establishment of Robert Booth
Reserve as a regional / satellite venue.
Review undertaken
Year 4
S&R
Baseball Victoria
Cricket
3.16
Support Cricket Victoria and multicultural agencies to implement cricket programs
and initiatives for multi cultural groups / participants.
Number of cricket programs conducted.
Year 1-4
S&R
Cricket Victoria, AMES,
CMY, Clubs, Sunday
Cricket Association,
Monash Health, DDCA
3.17
Encourage relevant clubs to apply for Cricket Australia / Victoria community facility
grants, where identified as a priority.
Grants applications lodged by relevant
clubs
Year 1-4
S&R
Clubs, Cricket Victoria,
Cricket Australia, DDCA
3.18
Support the development of cricket events to increase participation and community
cohesion by:
 Using the Cricket World Cup in 2015 to promote the sport;
 Supporting the Sri Lankan community to develop a multicultural sporting
event.
Number of events held.
Activation of civic square during 2015
Cricket World Cup.
Year 1-4
S&R
Cricket Victoria, Clubs,
DDCA
3.19
Continue to support Dandenong Women’s Cricket Club to establish a home base
for the club and upgrade facilities to a premier standard (in accordance with the
Sports Facilities Plan).
Establishment of home facilities.
Year 1-4
S&R
Cricket Victoria,
Dandenong Women’s
Cricket Club, DDCA
3.20
Work with Dandenong Women’s Cricket Club to develop a women’s cricket
program to increase participation and strengthen the viability of the club.
Program established.
Year 2-3
S&R
Cricket Victoria,
Dandenong Women’s
Cricket Club, DDCA
3.21
Develop strategies to strengthen the relationship between the men’s and women’s
cricket clubs
Strategies established and
implemented
Year 1-4
S&R
Cricket Victoria, Clubs,
DDCA
28
Objective 3 – Maintaining the distribution and access to quality outdoor structured sporting facilities
3.22
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Work with Cricket Victoria to review the potential for an indoor cricket facility, (or a
multi-purpose facility with the potential to cater for indoor cricket) within Greater
Dandenong.
Review undertaken.
Year 4
S&R
Cricket Victoria, Clubs,
DDCA
Hockey
3.23
Seek funding support to undertake a regional hockey feasibility study in
conjunction with Hockey Victoria and Dandenong Warriors to assess the viability
of a regional indoor hockey centre within Greater Dandenong.
Feasibility Study completed.
Year 3-4
S&R
Hockey Victoria, SRV,
Dandenong Warriors
Hockey Club.
3.24
Encourage the Warriors Hockey to actively promote club usage of both indoor and
outdoor hockey facilities in summer and winter seasons with Hockey Victoria.
Promotion of hockey facilities.
Year 3-4
S&R
Warriors Hockey Club,
Hockey Victoria
3.25
Support Hockey Victoria and Dandenong Warriors to develop junior, female and
multi-cultural programs.
Increase participation rates
Year 3-4
Hockey Vic,
Dandenong
Warriors
S&R
Revised Plan developed.
Year 1-2
S&R
Bowls Victoria, Clubs
Lawn Bowls / Croquet
3.26
Review the Lawn Bowls and Croquet Plan 2008 to assess future demand and
needs of Lawn Bowls and Croquet in Greater Dandenong.
Implement recommendations from revised plan.
Year 3-4
Rugby League
3.27
Continue to work with the South East Titans Rugby League club to grow senior
participation at the club.
Support provided / collaborative
projects undertaken.
Year 2-3
S&R
South East Titans,
Victorian Rugby League
3.28
Work with club and Victorian Rugby League (VRL) to investigate social and
modified games such as Tag Rugby.
Investigation undertaken, and modified
games implemented (pending
investigation).
Year 2-3
S&R
Victorian Rugby League
Soccer
3.29
Work with commercial soccer operators to provide affordable access and
programming initiatives to disadvantaged groups.
Increased access to 5-a-side soccer
facilities.
Year 2-4
S&R
Commercial providers,
Clubs
3.30
Develop artificial turf pitches in accordance with the Sports Facilities Plan and in
line with master plans for Greaves Reserve, Ross Reserve and Tatterson Park,
and explore options for multi-use.
Development of synthetic pitch.
Year 2-4
S&R
Planning, Commercial
providers
3.31
Develop partnerships with local schools to open up new grounds for community
access and the establishment of community use agreements with existing schools.
No. of community use agreements in
place
Year 3-4
S&R
Schools, Department of
Education
29
Objective 3 – Maintaining the distribution and access to quality outdoor structured sporting facilities
3.32
Strategic Actions
Indicators
Undertake further design and review the feasibility of a soccer hub within CGD
Detailed designs and consultation
undertaken
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Year 1-3
S&R
Clubs, Football
Federation Victoria,
Commercial providers
Investigation undertaken
Year 3-4
Softball Victoria
S&V
Softball
3.33
Work with key stakeholders to investigate the potential establishment of regional
facilities and a home base for Softball Victoria in Greater Dandenong.
Tennis
3.34
Encourage clubs to affiliate with Tennis Victoria.
Support CGD clubs to be more active in implementing Tennis Victoria programs
and services
Increased number of clubs affiliated
with Tennis Victoria and programs
implemented.
Year 1-4
S&R
Tennis Victoria, Clubs
3.35
Review of the Tennis Plan 2008. This should include:
 Establishing a Tennis club development forum in conjunction with Tennis
Victoria;
 Working with clubs to plan future facility needs and securing support from
Tennis Australia’s National Court rebate scheme; and
 Reviewing the need for a rationalisation of clubs utilising council facilities.
Implement recommendations from revised plan.
Revised Tennis Plan developed.
Tennis Forum established
Year 1-2
Year 1-4
S&R
S&R
Tennis Victoria, Clubs
Tennis Victoria, Clubs
Work with tennis clubs to encourage more open days, casual / social play
opportunities to increase tennis participation and membership.
Increased number of open days and
social / casual tennis initiatives.
S&R
Clubs, Tennis Victoria
3.36
Year 3-4
Year 1-4
30
Theme 4: Informal recreation
opportunities
Objective: Provide informal recreation
opportunities for all.
Rationale
Informal recreation activities are enjoyed by people
of all ages and abilities, can be undertaken at any
time and require little or no cost to participants.
Informal recreation activities such as walking,
cycling, swimming and running / jogging are the
most popular physical activities at a national, state
and local level. Continued efforts are required to
encourage greater levels of participation in such
activities, which have a direct benefit to health and
wellbeing.
Background
Greater Dandenong residents have access to a
range of infrastructure and open spaces that
support and encourage participation in informal
recreation activities. This includes 116 parks, 105
adventure playgrounds, 4 bushwalking areas and
54 kilometres of bikes paths, in addition to the 45
sports reserves and 5 major indoor leisure centres
that provide for both informal recreation and
structured sporting activities.
Findings from the market research and
consultation indicate a priority for access to
unstructured recreation and sporting activities and
a movement way from structured activities. One of
the key reasons for this change is directly related
to people being time poor and not being able to
commit to an activity or a club on a regular basis.
increase female participation and improve
pathways / linkages to cycling groups.
Based on the CGD participation survey results,
nine of the ten most popular sporting activities are,
or can be deemed as ‘unstructured’ activities (i.e.
walking, swimming, cycling, running / jogging,
basketball, football (soccer), tennis, ballet / dance,
gym / aerobics / fitness and yoga).
Skating. Skate facilities are currently provided at
Hemming’s Park Dandenong, Warehouse 20
(private) and a new skate park and youth precinct
is being developed at Ross Reserve in Noble Park.
It is recommended that priority be given to
improving facilities and programs / services that
support participation in unstructured activities.
Recommendations for a number of the above
activities have been addressed in earlier sections
of this report, including opportunities to increase
access to swimming, aquatic based programs and
health and fitness programs.
Key issues and opportunities
Walking is the most popular physical activity with
participation rates in Greater Dandenong (52%)
exceeding both state (36.6%) and national (35.9%)
participation rates. Despite its popularity, ongoing
efforts and strategies are required to encourage
more people to walk, by creating environments that
are appealing, convenient, safe and enjoyable.
Cycling is the third most popular activity in Greater
Dandenong however many people are unaware of
bike paths within the area. The continued provision
of infrastructure is required to enhance recreational
cycling and improve linkages to regional trails and
key destinations. Strategies are also required to
increase awareness about cycling opportunities,
Unstructured Opportunities in Open Space
should be considered when developing master
plans to encourage incidental participation and
physical activity. Such opportunities may include
multi-use games areas, half courts, tennis or
handball hit up walls, four square courts, outdoor
table tennis tables, running tracks and outdoor
gyms.
There is also an opportunity to develop multi-use
games areas and pop-up-parks that could be used
by informal groups wishing to play a casual game
of soccer, netball, basketball etc.
Several actions within Theme 4 relate to actions
contained within the Community Health and
Wellbeing Plan, including:
2.3.2: “Promote walking and cycling as forms of
transport to increase physical activity”; and
2.1.4: Develop Pop up Park as casual play and
pay for community groups and corporate
organisations.”
31
Objective 4 – Provide informal recreation opportunities for all
Strategic Actions
Indicators
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Year 1
S&R
Planning, Health and
Wellbeing, Comm.
Development, Vic
Walks, Monash Health
Walking / jogging
4.1
Develop a Walking Strategy for the City of Greater Dandenong to identify
opportunities and strategies that encourage and facilitate greater participation in
walking.
Walking Strategy developed.
4.2
Work with schools and work places to encourage and support increased walking to
school and work.
Programs / initiatives undertaken with
schools and local businesses
Year 1-4
S&R
Health and Wellbeing,
VicHealth, Schools,
Local businesses
4.3
Develop a communications plan to promote walking opportunities for recreation
and active travel.
Communication plan developed
Year 1-4
S&R
Media & Comms
Management Agencies,
Providers
4.4
Work with key stakeholders to initiate a fun run / walk in Greater Dandenong.
Establishment of annual fun run / walk
Year 2-4
S&R
Health and Wellbeing,
Athletics Clubs
4.5
Continue to support and promote walking groups, women’s groups and buddy
systems in Greater Dandenong that facilitate greater participation in walking.
Establishment of waking group/s
Year 1-4
S&R
Management Agencies /
Providers, Comm.
Wellbeing, Comm. Care
4.5
Develop walking trail maps to promote key walking routes and opportunities in
Greater Dandenong.
Walking trail map developed
Year 1
S&R
Vic Walks
4.6
Ensure walking paths are incorporated into master plans for key sites throughout
the municipality.
Walking trail map developed
Year 1
Open Space
S&R, Health &
Wellbeing
Develop a Cycling Strategy in the City of Greater Dandenong that identifies
opportunities to increase recreational cycling to key destinations and hubs and
opportunities to link existing or new trails to regional trails.
Implement recommendations contained within the Cycling Strategy
Cycling Strategy developed.
Year 2
S&R
Cycling Victoria
implementation of the Cycling Strategy
Year 3-4
4.8
Develop promotional activities to promote cycling opportunities.
Promotional activities undertaken.
Year 3-4
S&R
Health and Wellbeing,
Cycling Victoria, Bicycle
Network
4.9
Develop a brochure and series of cycle maps detailing cycle pathways and
connections to other networks in neighbouring municipalities.
Brochure / cycling maps developed and
promoted.
Planning
Cycling Victoria
Cycling and Recreation Trails
4.7
Year 4
32
Objective 4 – Provide informal recreation opportunities for all
Strategic Actions
Indicators
4.10
Work with Cycling Victoria and Cycling Australia to pilot a women’s only led cycling
rides around the municipality.
Pilot program undertaken.
Increase in female participation.
4.11
Explore new opportunities and initiatives to expand participation in recreational
cycling / bike riding through a range of programs, games and events, particularly
for young people and CALD communities.
4.12
Continue to provide opportunities and programs for skating and BMX riding at
skate parks throughout the municipality.
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Year 1-3
S&R
Cycling Victoria /
Australia
New opportunities developed
Year 3-4
S&R
Cycling Victoria, Bicycle
Network, Schools, Youth
Services, Schools
Skate / BMX programs conducted
Year 3-4
S&R
Youth Services,
Management Agency,
BMX / Skate /
Skateboarding Victoria
Unstructured recreation in open space
4.13
Incorporate unstructured recreation infrastructure into the planning and
development of key open space areas to encourage increased levels of physical
activity (i.e. outdoor gyms, basketball half courts, rebound walls etc.)
Infrastructure provided
Year 2-4
Open Space
Planning, S&R
4.14
Explore the potential for free training programs to improve access to health and
fitness activities in open spaces.
Training programs provided.
Year 2-4
S&R
Outdoor training
providers
4.15
Explore opportunities for the development of informal multi use games areas
(MUGAs) across CGD especially in high density areas.
Development of multi use games areas.
Year 2-4
S&R
Planning
4.16
Support the promotion of the ‘Pop Up Park’ for use by community groups and
corporate organisations (especially in off-peak times).
Continued / increased usage of pop-uppark
Year 1-4
Revitalising
Central D’nong
Unit
HWB, Community
Development, Mission
Australia, AMES, CMY
33
Theme 5: Sporting opportunities and
club viability
Objective: Supporting the provision of
structured sporting opportunities by
improving the sustainability and financial
viability of clubs.
Rationale
Sports clubs are directly responsible for providing
sporting activities for the community by providing
opportunities for training, competition and social
engagement. The quality of club operations,
facilities and personnel impacts on a club’s ability
to attract and retain members, which in turn
impacts on participation levels within the
community.
Background
The City of Greater Dandenong Community
Directory lists 91 sporting clubs across 18 different
sports and recreational activities. A further seven
sports are staged within the five major indoor
venues.
Sporting clubs have a high and increasing level of
responsibility, but are generally run by volunteers.
This presents a challenge for clubs and highlights
the need for Council, together with state and
national sporting associations to support clubs and
assist them in the delivery of sporting opportunities
to the community.
Key issues and opportunities
The following key issues and opportunities have
been noted from background research and
consultation with clubs, associations and other
stakeholders:
 A decline in volunteerism makes it difficult for
clubs to recruit and retain volunteers for
coaching, officiating and administrative duties.
 High and increasing levels of responsibility
associated with:
Opportunities exist for Council to work with national
and state sporting associations to support clubs
and associations to effectively deliver introductory
programs, foster links with local schools and
increase participation and membership.
Theme 5 has a direct relationship with the
Community Health and Wellbeing Plan, particularly
action 2.1.11 which references the Sports Pavilion
Management Policy to increase active participation
in sport and support the viability of sporting clubs.
o insurance and risk management;
o fundraising and grant applications;
o financial management and accountability;
o sporting code of conduct;
o governance;
o legislative and regularly requirements;
o Council procedures and requirements
(including those associated with tenancy
agreements);
o marketing and promotion;
o recruitment and training of volunteers;
o Providing accessible and inclusive
environments (for people with disabilities,
from CALD communities etc.)
 Competition amongst clubs for members due
to the wide range of sporting opportunities
that are available to residents in Greater
Dandenong and surrounding areas.
 Reliance on local associations, clubs and
volunteers to implement introductory
programs aimed at increasing participation
34
Objective 5 – Supporting the provision of sporting opportunities by improving the sustainability and financial viability of clubs
Strategic Actions
Indicators
5.1
Develop an online Sports Resource Pack for local sporting clubs to assist with the
management and operation of their organisation.
Online resource pack developed.
5.2
Explore and advocate for the development of an online application and portal
system for clubs, in order to simplify processes for club administrators.
5.3
When
Lead
Responsibility
Partners
Year 1-3
S&R
Vic Sport, SRV, State
Sporting Associations
Online system developed.
Year 1-3
S&R
Media & Comms, IT
Implement strategies and initiatives to support and grow the sporting volunteer
base, particularly amongst CALD communities by promoting the benefits and
removing barriers to volunteering.
Number of volunteers retained
Year 3-4
S&R
Community Engagement
Volunteer Agencies, Clubs /
VicSport, AMES, CMY
5.4
Establish an annual sport award and recognition scheme that celebrates the
contribution made by individuals and volunteers to sport in the CGD.
Establishment of annual awards
night.
Year 2-4
S&R
Media & Comms, Comm.
Engagement, Clubs
5.5
Work in collaboration with State Sporting Associations (SSA’s) to provide a range
of introductory programs to encourage participation and channel interest from
participants to local clubs (i.e. from schools and community settings).
Number of SSA programs developed.
Year 1-4
State Sporting
Associations
S&R, Clubs, Schools
5.6
Work in collaboration with State Sporting Associations to provide training and oneto-one support to targeted clubs.
Number of training forums held.
Year 1-4
Vic Sport
S&R Clubs, State Sporting
Associations
5.7
Work with local and regional sporting associations to ensure programs provide
talent pathways from development programs through to elite sporting opportunities.
Talent pathways clearly defined and
promoted.
Year 2-4
S&R
State Sporting Associations,
Clubs
5.8
Work to improve school - club links, and improved community access to school
assets (where required) through the development of community use agreements.
Establishment of community use
agreements.
Year 3-4
S&R
Dept of Education,
Local Schools
5.9
Work with clubs to investigate and implement amalgamation opportunities and
share joint resources.
Amalgamation of clubs
Year 2-4
S&R
Clubs
5.10
Review Council’s policies to guide the management of operation of sport and
recreation facilities and reserves including:
 Sport Pavilion Management Policy, including tenancy arrangements
 Floodlighting Policy, including financial contributions
 Turf Wicket Cricket Policy
Policy reviews undertaken
Year 1-4
S&R
Vic Sport, Clubs
5.11
Work with clubs to ensure the provision of healthy club environments through the
implementation of programs such as responsible servicing of alcohol, healthy
eating and the promotion of smoke free environments.
Number of clubs implementing
healthy club initiatives
Year 1-4
S&R
Clubs
5.12
Support clubs to implement the ‘Save it for the game’ program to reduce energy
consumption.
Change in behaviour / energy usage
patterns
Year 1-4
S&R
Planning, Clubs, SECCCA
35
10. Implementation and
review
The draft Activate Sport and Active Recreation
Strategy 2014-19 has identified a large number of
recommendations and actions to be implemented
over the next four years. Many of these actions can
be implemented within existing resources, whist
others will require additional financial resources.
The action plan provides indicative timelines for
each strategic action, but notes that
implementation will be subject to funding
availability, including the acquisition of external
funding such as government grants.
There may be instances where some longer term
actions are undertaken earlier, due to funding
opportunities being made available or taking into
account other Council priorities. Conversely, some
actions may be deferred due to funding being
unavailable (i.e. due to unsuccessful grant
applications).
The staging of works may be considered for
individual project to enable a range of activities to
be funded within the nominated time frame.



Prioritisation of annual capital works
expenditure; funded principally through rates
State Government funding: Application to
the Department of Planning and Community
Development Sport and Recreation Victoria
(SRV) Community Facilities Funding
Program. Funding from this program is not
guaranteed and subject to a competitive
application process.

Public Private Partnership: Collaboration
with industry, peak agencies and/or
Department of Education and Early
Childhood Development etc.

Joint use facilities: Collaboration with
Department of Education and Early
Childhood Development, private providers,
and clubs/user groups.

Sponsorship: Collaboration with industry
groups, private providers etc.

Asset sale and consolidation: Proceeds from
the rationalisation of assets may be targeted
towards specific improvements to recreation
facilities.

Income generated from facility management:
Including contract management
arrangements and ‘fees for use’.
Funding options
The following details options for Council to fund the
Strategy’s actions:
Commonwealth Government funding: The
Federal Government provides funding for
recreation programs and services,
particularly for disadvantaged communities,
high level sporting facilities or facilities that
service a wider regional catchment.
Evaluation and review
The City of Greater Dandenong will continually
monitor and evaluate the recreation needs of
residents through a range of mechanisms such as
the Sport and Recreation Participation Survey and
annual review of participation and membership
statistics from clubs / associations, and attendance
figures from Council’s indoor leisure centres.
A review of ACTIVATE will also be undertaken on
an annual basis to measure the status of the
implementation process, the effectiveness of
strategic actions and to assist with the allocation of
resources. A reprioritisation of strategic actions
may also be undertaken in response to the
outcomes of the review process, emerging issues,
changing trends, and the availability of funding.
36