Fuel Costs Force Cuts to Travel, Participation in WA Community Sports
Rising prices are putting the squeeze on community sports clubs across Western Australia, with reports of declining player numbers and event attendance, especially in travel-heavy and regional sports.
"Total costs per training session reached approximately A$500 including accommodation and food."
Lois Garner reported that travel costs for her daughter's basketball training have surged from A$100 each way to A$150 each way. Combined with accommodation and food, a single training session now totals approximately A$500.
Equestrian WA chief executive Rob Kennedy noted a significant drop in competitors at events, pointing to a recent show jumping event near Yallingup that drew half its usual number.
SportWest chief executive Troy Kirkham stated that participation is down across the board, with some events being scaled back entirely.
Country Football WA has responded by increasing the cap payable to traveling players by 33% in an effort to help small clubs field teams.
Volunteers are also feeling the strain, with some requesting financial support. Clubs are absorbing what costs they can, but acknowledge this is unsustainable in the long term.
Government Response and Calls for Action
Minister for Sport and Recreation Rita Saffioti stated that supporting Western Australians with cost-of-living pressures is a key priority, with further announcements expected in the upcoming state budget.
Troy Kirkham called for government support packages and greater flexibility in existing funding to offset travel costs. He also suggested that local governments provide buses for traveling teams.