$500 grants to assist local families with costs for talented junior sportspeople are now available for 2017.

Acknowledging the additional costs regional and rural children and their families incur in travelling to attend representative sporting events, Mr Taylor said the Local Sporting Champions grants could provide valuable financial assistance.

“Local Sporting Champion grants can assist with travel and accommodation costs, or sporting fees, equipment or any expenses associated with attending higher level training or competition,” Mr Taylor said.

50 grants are available across the Hume electorate to be distributed in three funding rounds during 2017.

Families can apply via a simple online application throughout the year, with a new round opening on March 1.

Mr Taylor said the grants were available to young people between 12 and 18 years of age who compete at a state, national or international level and who need to travel more than 250km (return) to take part in their chosen sport.

“This program has assisted hundreds of young local sport people and their families in my electorate and provides a welcome financial boost and encouragement for young people to pursue their sporting dreams.

“I encourage all local sporting organisations to ensure eligible talented representatives within their clubs are submitting applications.”

Further details on the eligibility criteria and access to the online application form can be found at http://www.ausport.gov.au/participating/local_sporting_champions