The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has teamed up with QIC Real Estate on a new community sport initiative to encourage more Australians to get involved in sport.
The QIC Play Well initiative will see nine of QIC's shopping centres across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT give out $100 sport themed gift cards over the next 12 months.
The gift cards can be redeemed at a wide range of sports and lifestyle stores within the participating centres, to help Australians cover the cost of essential sports equipment such as footwear, apparel, mouth guards and more.
QIC General Manager of Shopping Centre Management, Stephen Dewaele said the initiative will see families and individuals share in almost $50,000 to ensure that sport remains accessible to all.
“Sport plays a vital role in Australian culture, not only promoting physical health, but also fostering social connection, and personal development," Dewaele said.
"With the QIC Play Well initiative, we’re proud to partner with the ASC to make sport more accessible to families across the country. Whether as players, coaches, officials, volunteers, or supporters, we want to support Australians in embracing everything sport has to offer,” he added.
ASC Executive General Manager Sport and Community Capability and Chair of the Play Well Leadership Group Richard McInnes said the partnership will help more Australians get involved in and play well in sport.
“Play Well is about creating safe, welcoming, inclusive and fun sporting environments where everyone feels like they belong and are supported.”
“By collaborating with QIC, we are helping Australians of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to access the benefits of, and find their place in sport.”
Jemima Montag, Olympic Race Walker and two-time Olympic medallist, is passionate about making sport accessible to all and recognises the significant benefits of encouraging families and individuals to get involved.
"Sport is about more than just the game - it’s about community, belonging, and growth. Whether you’re playing at a local club or the world stage, sport builds friendships; strengthens mind and body; and teaches lifelong skills like dedication and leadership," she said.
"Initiatives like QIC’s Play Well are integral to removing barriers and opening opportunities for all Australians to find their place in sport. By covering small costs that make a big difference, more people can get involved and stay in the game. We are each the many threads in the tapestry of sport.”
The Play Well initiative was officially launched at Robina Town Centre, with Australian athletes, juniors, coaches and sports officials lending their support.
In addition to the gift card program, the initiative provides access to the ASC’s Get Involved digital platform, which connects people with local clubs, sporting activities, and volunteer organisations in their communities.
Families can visit participating centre websites for more information and enter for a chance to win one of the weekly $100 Play Well gift cards. Full details and entry information is available on each centre’s website.
