$500 grants to assist local families with costs for talented junior sportspeople are now available for 2018.

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said Round 3 applications of the Local Sporting Champions program were now open

“This program is a fantastic opportunity to get assistance with travel and accommodation costs, or sporting fees, equipment or any expenses associated with attending higher level training or competition,” Mr Taylor said.

“Local Sporting Champions has helped hundreds of families in Hume and provides a great boost for young people to pursue their sporting dreams.”

The Local Sporting Champions program is an Australian Government initiative designed to provide financial assistance for young sportsmen and women aged 12-18.

If successful, applicants will receive a $500 grant that can be used towards the cost of travel, accommodation, uniforms or equipment, coaching or officiating at an official national sporting organisation (NSO) endorsed state, national or international sporting championships, or a School Sport Australia state, national or international championships.

Mr Taylor said the grants were available to young people who compete at a state, national or international level and who need to travel more than 250km (return) to participate.

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

Applications for Round 3 close February 28, 2018.

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