Mr Merlino announced a $20,000 boost to secure the future of soccer across three local councils, saying it is one of the fastest growing sporting activities in Victoria.

“Soccer is one of the hottest sports in town and demand for good local soccer facilities is particularly strong in the Yarra Ranges Shire, the City of Casey and the Cardinia Council,” Mr Merlino said.

“That’s why the Bracks Government is providing $20,000 to help these communities plan a strategic approach to ensure soccer continues to thrive at the grassroots level.

“It is vital we get the strategy right so the sport remains a strong and integral part of these local communities in the years to come, and this funding will enable that to happen.

“More than 1,200 people are playing the game in the Yarra Ranges and in addition, Cardinia Shire Council has earmarked a reserve in Pakenham for the development of new soccer fields.

“In Casey alone, 158 teams are affiliated with 12 clubs, which all play on a total of 23 local soccer fields.”

The three councils are working on a strategy to maintain the number of people currently playing soccer in these communities and also to find new ways to increase participation rates, which Mr Merlino said the government was keen to support.

“People who are active in sport and recreation are more likely to take part in other aspects of community life, which is what our Go for your life campaign is all about,” Mr Merlino said.

Making the funding announcement today at a Monbulk soccer field, Mr Merlino said consultants would work with the three councils, the Football Federation Victoria, Sport and Recreation Victoria and a variety of other stakeholders, to develop a seven-year action plan.

“The government has pledged $4.65 million through the Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program to help councils across Victoria drought proof their local sporting facilities,” Mr Merlino said.

“This is about helping local sports – often the cornerstone of our communities – thrive, not just survive.”