The Fair Access Policy primarily guides Council’s work toward providing safe and connected spaces for everyone to access sporting infrastructure, in line with our overarching goal of Whittlesea 2040: A place for all: Connected Community.
This policy establishes Council’s commitment that gender equality be considered and prioritised in all current and future Council planning, policy, service delivery, facility allocations and practice as they relate to community sports infrastructure.
Local City of Whittlesea Sporting Clubs are completing 6 education modules to provide knowledge on:
These modules will provide support and networking opportunities to local sporting clubs to continue developing their club culture and champion Gender Equity.
Upon completion of all 6 modules, each club will develop a Gender Equity Action Plan with Council support, to guide their operational and strategic direction in line with Fair Access Principles.
The Uni Hill Eagles Football Club introduced a club-branded hijab to ensure Fatima, a volunteer, could participate fully while wearing her cultural attire. This initiative highlighted the power of listening, persistence, and personal ownership in creating an inclusive environment.
Vice President Assad Chahine noticed that Fatima couldn’t wear the standard club merchandise due to her hijab. A simple conversation - initially laughed off - sparked a proactive effort to create a branded hijab. With Assad driving the initiative and Fatima providing guidance on the logo placement, the club ensured she could proudly wear her club colours on game day.
Club members quickly noticed the hijab, initially thinking Fatima had made it herself. The initiative not only made Fatima feel included but also set a strong example of how small acts of consideration can create meaningful inclusion.
"It was a simple question that made a big difference. With a bit of care and persistence, we helped Fatima feel she truly belonged on the team." – Assad Chahine, Vice President.
In 2024, Laurimar Cricket Club introduced a Family Violence Round to raise awareness of domestic violence. The initiative combined on-field action with community education, promoting societal change and encouraging men to understand their role in preventing family violence.
Club President Jason led the initiative with the support of the committee, coordinating with opposing teams and league officials. The club designed a special match shirt and hosted a Thursday night community dinner with speakers including local MP Lauren Cathage to ensure the round included both education and respectful commemoration.
The round created a safe space for club members and the community to share experiences and learn. Younger players gained awareness of their responsibilities, and the initiative has since become a recurring fixture, strengthening club culture and community engagement.
"It’s called a community club for a reason – clubs have a right to look after the community and do things to help the community." – Jason, Club President.
Epping Tennis Club launched an All Abilities Tennis Program to provide inclusive opportunities for people of all abilities, ensuring everyone could participate in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Several committee members identified a need for more inclusive participation. They researched programs, attended workshops, visited clubs running similar programs, and secured funding, equipment, and trained coaches. A pilot program was launched, with adjustments made to session times to improve accessibility.
Since 2023, over 40 participants have taken part. A notable success story is a participant who progressed from the program into competitive club tennis. The initiative has strengthened club culture and demonstrated that even small participation numbers can grow into significant individual impact.
"Even small participation can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. Inclusion isn’t just a program - it’s a commitment." – Epping Tennis Club Committee.
Want to know how to get your club involved?
Email fair.access@whittlesea.vic.gov.au for more information.
City of Whittlesea Fair Access Policy(PDF, 362KB)
City of Whittlesea Fair Access Policy (Accessible)(DOCX, 254KB)
If you need this document in a different format, please contact us on 03 9217 2170 or email fair.access@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Email: fair.access@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 9217 2170