This article shares the information you need to know about the Active Kids Rebate in NSW.
The NSW Government is helping kids get active with the Active Kids program. The Active Kids program provides two $100 vouchers for parents, guardians and carers of school-enrolled children to use towards sport and active recreation costs each year.
>> Read more about QLD Government Sports Vouchers here
Who is eligible?
If you’re a parent, carer or guardian, the student will be eligible if they are:
- a NSW resident.
- aged between 4.5 and 18 years.
- enrolled in school (from Kindergarten to Year 12, including those who are home-schooled or enrolled in secondary school education at TAFE NSW).
- a current Medicare card holder.
You can apply for a voucher for each eligible student. The voucher can be used for registration, participation or membership costs with an approved Active Kids provider.
What’s the validity on the sports vouchers?
The vouchers may be used with a registered activity provider for registration, participation and membership costs for sport, fitness, and active recreation activities.
What can the Active Kids Rebate be used for?
These vouchers can be redeemed to help with the cost of traditional team sport such as netball, football or basketball; swimming classes or lessons; as well as other fitness or physical activities such as gymnastics or athletics. The official list of eligible sports include:
- sporting pursuits
- swimming lessons
- structured fitness program
- outdoor recreation programs
- approved active recreation (dance etc)
- other structured programs of moderate to vigorous activity (approved by the Office of Sport)
The definition of ‘physical activity’
- Physical activity is defined as movement involving large muscles e.g. running, swimming, aerobic activity.
- It must be planned, structured and involve repetitive bodily movement which improves or maintains physical fitness.
- Physical activity programs must be at least eight weeks in duration.
- Activities for children with disability that may not otherwise meet the above criteria should be discussed with the Office of Sport. Email activekids@sport.nsw.gov.au.
Ineligible Activities
Activities that are not eligible are:
- programs less than eight weeks’ duration.
- gym membership that is not part of a structured program.
- activities that are part of the school curriculum or conducted during school hours.
- after-school care services and tutors.
- school-run competitions, including weekend and inter-school sport competitions or activities.
Costs that are excluded are:
- individual items such as jerseys, socks, boots, clothing or equipment that would usually be purchased from a retailer and paid for by the individual as part of participating in the activity separate to any membership or registration fees charged by the provider.
- travel to and from competitions.
What will I need to apply?
- a MyServiceNSW account
- one proof of identity document for the parent/carer/guardian
- your child’s Medicare card details
- your child’s height and weight (optional)
How do I find an approved provider to accept a voucher?
Providers must be registered with the program and approved by the Office of Sport prior to accepting vouchers from recipients. A list of providers approved and registered with the Active Kids program will be available to see when you apply on MyServiceNSW.
Approved providers will include clubs affiliated with State Sporting Organisations (SSOs) and active recreation organisations.
Where can I get more information?
Head to the Active Kids page on the NSW Government website for more information.
Phone: Active Kids enquiry line 13 77 88
Email: activekids@sport.nsw.gov.au (link sends e-mail)
