The Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania (MRC Tas) is proud to launch the Women United program, a game-changing initiative aimed at increasing sports participation among women and girls from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
Made possible by a $431,406 grant from the Australian Government, this program is part of the broader Play Our Way initiative, which focuses on making sport more inclusive and accessible.
MRC Tas Executive Manager, Settlement Services, Sally Thompson, said for many women and girls from CALD communities, participating in sport can be challenging due to cultural, financial, and accessibility barriers.
“The Women United program is designed to remove obstacles by offering practical support, such as pre-season clinics, assistance with registration and equipment, scholarships, and opportunities for leadership and community involvement,” she said.
“The program is not just about playing sports—it’s about building confidence, leadership skills, and social connections that extend beyond the field or court,” she said.
Since receiving the funding, MRC Tas has:
- employed peer workers and a program support worker to connect with the community;
- hosted a successful ‘Come and Try’ soccer session in Launceston, introducing women and girls to the sport in a welcoming environment; and
- announced 10 soccer scholarships (5 for Hobart, 5 for Launceston) and 10 basketball scholarships (exclusive to Northern Tasmania) to support participants in continuing their sporting journey.
The Women United program will see MRC Tas partner with the Launceston Basketball Association (LBA) and local football clubs to create sustainable pathways for CALD women and girls in sport.
The program will empower young women through peer worker models, offer leadership opportunities, and engage families in coaching and volunteering, fostering lifelong involvement in sports.
Launceston Basketball Association President, Craig Gibson, said basketball is already one of the fastest growing and most popular sports in the Launceston community, offering a great way for people to stay active.
“Through the ‘Women United’ program, we aim to extend those opportunities to even more women and girls from diverse backgrounds to get involved in basketball and experience the many benefits of team sports,” he said.
For more information please contact, Tabitha Zachariah, MRC Tas Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator – tzachariah@mrctas.org.au / 0483 080 084