A Tim Nicholls-led Liberal National Government will provide a $15 million boost to community-based and elite women’s sports in Queensland.
Mr Nicholls said the LNP would provide a $15 million boost for women’s sport to build on the success of the Brisbane Lions AFLW team in the inaugural competition.
"The LNP will grant a Christmas wish for a new ground by 2020 when the Gold Coast Suns team enters the national women’s competition," Mr Nicholls said.
"We were all so proud of our Brisbane Lions women’s team last year, finishing a close second in the inaugural national competition.
"We realised the need for increased investment to provide better facilities for our elite female players, as well as providing more support for grass roots teams as well.
"The Lions Reserve project provides a home ground to our elite female AFL team – which is what they deserve.
"This is not only a fair go for our women athletes, but it will create 242 jobs in construction and 760 once operational.
"Our Get in the Game policy from 2012 has helped to boost grass roots sport, with more than 100,000 Queensland girls playing AFL in 2017."
LNP Shadow Treasurer and Maiwar candidate Scott Emerson said the $15 million investment was about encouraging more women and girls to enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.
"We know that women’s sport is growing at rapid levels across Australia and we need to do more to encourage grass roots participation and elite competition at the highest levels," Mr Emerson said.
"We also see a huge potential in sports tourism and opportunities to attract major international and domestic sporting events to Queensland.
"With our great weather and lifestyle, Queensland is uniquely placed to claim the title as the women’s sporting capital of Australia.
"To do that, we need to put our money where our mouth is, which is why we are making this important announcement.
"This is part of our plan to provide safe and liveable communities and Build a Better Queensland."
