Music to the ears of SA families as Sports Vouchers expand


A refreshed sports voucher program will see children from Reception to Year 9 eligible to receive double the support through two $100 Sports Vouchers per calendar year.

And for the first time music lessons and active recreation will also be incorporated in the program.

A total of $54.6 million will be invested over four years to deliver the Sports Vouchers Plus initiative.

Sports Vouchers have continued to evolve since they were first launched in 2015 and over the past decade the offering has extended to provide subsidies for dance, learn-to-swim programs, Scouts and Guides.

Theatre Bugs became a Sports Vouchers provider in 2019 when the program expanded to include dance, and with the inclusion of music it’s expected more participants will now take part in the organisation’s musical programs, building on the more than 2200 vouchers which have so far been used for participation with the South Australian organisation.

Theatre Bugs managing director Michael Eustice said the organisation was thrilled that music lessons were now included in the program.

"This wonderful initiative not only makes music more accessible to families but also provides children with an opportunity to develop creativity, confidence, and essential life skills," Mr Eustice said.

"It’s a fantastic way to support young minds and ensure parents have an affordable avenue to enrich their children’s lives through the arts.

"Since 2019, Sports Vouchers have been a game-changer for Theatre Bugs, enabling thousands of children to discover the joy of performing arts in an affordable, accessible way."

In 2024, Sports Vouchers enjoyed its most successful year to date with a record number of more than 95,000 vouchers claimed over 12 months.

Since its inception, more than 697,000 vouchers have been claimed, providing $58.85 million to South Australian families to put towards eligible activities.

Families can claim their Sports Vouchers via www.sportsvouchers.sa.gov.au (external site)

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