The uptake of the Sports Vouchers program continues to grow in regional South Australia, enabling more families to access cost of living relief across the state.


While only 70 vouchers were claimed in Mount Gambier in January 2025, it was a huge jump from the seven claimed in January 2024.


Around $3m in support and more than 30,000 vouchers were provided in regional SA last year – a 9% increase on 2023 figures, when just under 28,000 vouchers were claimed.


Significant rises in 2024 were recorded in Murray and Mallee (up 10% to 3924 vouchers), Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island (up 10% to 2944 vouchers) and Yorke and Mid North (up 7% to 4193 vouchers).


Adelaide Hills (up 12% to 5666 vouchers) along with Barossa, Light and Lower North (up 8% to 5118 vouchers) also had big jumps year-on-year.


This year the State Government announced it would double the number of $100 Sports Vouchers to two per child per calendar year, in addition to including music lessons and active recreation for the first time.


The $54.6m investment over four years allows more families to access sport and recreational activities through the boosted program – getting young people engaged in the community and away from screens.


Children from Reception to Year 9 can receive the subsidy with more than 1900 organisations registered as Sports Vouchers Plus providers.


Since the program’s inception in 2015, more than 717,000 vouchers have been claimed, providing more than $60m to local families to put towards eligible activities.


The State Government has also committed $500,000 per year for the Connected and Active Communities Project, further strengthening regional communities through sport and recreation.


The initiative – now operating in the Limestone Coast, Port Lincoln, Whyalla and Riverland – partners with local organisations to improve participation rates in young people and better connect communities.


Families can find more information at sportsvouchers.sa.gov.au.