NT Govt Report by tim@ganesh.com.au

Review of Active Recreation Organisation and Sport Service Providers Investment Programs April 2014

Understand, Inspire, Create

Page left intentionally blank

Contents Introduction NT Government Funding of the Active Recreation Sector Active Recreation in the NT Sport Service Providers in the NT Comparisons to other State Governments and Other Providers Summary of Review Recommendations Active Recreation Organisations Sport Service Providers

1 4 9 11 12 13 17 28

Page left intentionally blank

Background to the Review

Introduction

The Department of Sport, Recreation and Racing (DSRR) has provided funding to Peak Sport and Recreation Organisations for many years. A review of the funding process was commissioned in July 2008, and a key recommendation was to split the program into Peak Sporting Bodies (PSBs) and Active Recreation Organisations (AROs). The application process was split in 2009 with a recommendation that PSBs would be funded “by negotiation” for three years and funding for AROs would continue to be an annual application process. In 2013 the DSRR undertook an internal review of criteria for the PSB funding program. The review resulted in the development of a framework for investment direction, including a tiered structure based on member numbers, organisational capacity governance and a number of other key criteria. The program remains a negotiated process, but has a base structure to guide funding recommendations for PSBs. One of the unintended outcomes of the PSB review was that four organisations previously funded under the program no longer met the PSB criteria. These organisations provide ancillary services to sport and sporting organisations or act as industry representative bodies or umbrella organisations. As a short-term measure, these organisations were notionally called Sport Service Providers (SSPs), allocated one year funding for financial year 2013/14 and advised that a review would be undertaken in relation to funding for financial year 2014/15. The need for a review of AROs was identified in early 2013 when considering the opening dates for the 2013/14 funding round, following discussions in previous years relating to organisations funded, what is funded and why. Currently, a number of funded organisations do not have sport and active recreation as their primary purpose, while others receive combined funding well in excess of many PSBs. Despite the fact that following the review in 2008 a set of ARO specific guidelines were developed, with the intent to provide funding for “Organisation Development” and “Priority Initiatives”, annual allocation recommendations have generally been based on historical funding levels with relatively even increases based on the amount of funding in the grant program. The DSRR has been slowly decreasing funding to some AROs, due to lack of performance and/or relevance. However, those organisations were also provided with the 50% election commitment increase in 2012. As a result of the above, Sprocket Consulting was engaged in December 2013 to conduct a review of the priorities and objectives for NT Government funding of AROs and SSPs. The review involved: meeting all currently funded organisations; developing a report around the issues identified and providing recommendations on what government should be funding based on research and government policy; and producing a funding framework. The Active Recreation Organisation Investment Program and the Sport Service Providers Program review meetings occurred over the period 10 January 2014 to 12 March 2014. These review meetings entailed meeting with representatives of each of the below organisations, who are currently funded by the Department of Sport, Recreation and Racing (DSRR), in one of the two Investment Programs being reviewed. A DSRR representative was also involved in each of the meetings.

Currently Funded Organisations Active Recreation Organisations – Darwin (8) YMCA of the Top End Scouts NT Girl Guides NT Total Recreation NT Disabled Sports Association NT Life. Be In It Riding for the Disabled in the Top End Australian Red Cross NT Active Recreation Organisations – Alice Springs (5) Gap Youth and Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation Alice Springs Youth and Community Centre Hamilton Downs Youth Camp Association YMCA Alice Springs Riding for the Disabled Alice Springs Active Recreation Organisations – Katherine (1) YMCA Katherine Sport Service Providers – Darwin (4) Motorsports NT Royal Life Saving Society Australia (NT) Firearms Council Sports Medicine NT Each organisation was provided with an introduction to the review and a series of structured questions was asked of the organisation to gain an understanding of their business, how they use the DSRR funding within their organisation and their general views on the grant processes. These questions were grouped into three main areas being: Organisational Objectives, Financial Management and Performance Measures. A summary of the funding amounts for financial year 2013/14 for each organisation funded under the Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program is shown in Table 1 and for the Sport Service Providers Grant Program in Table 2.

NB: the Active Recreation Organisations and Sport Service Providers information is discussed separately in the report, due to the differences in the organisations outcomes and objectives.

Table 1: Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program funding allocation for financial year 2013/14.

Organisation Details

Active Recreation Funding

Other DSRR Funding

Comments

Alice Springs Youth and Community Centre

$120,000

Nil

Life Be In It NT Inc

$120,000

Nil

Total Recreation NT Inc

$112,500

Nil

YMCA of Central Australia Inc

$105,000

Nil

YMCA of Katherine

$105,000

Building provided FOC

NTG building with no lease in place. NTG undertake all R&M

YMCA of the Top End Inc

$105,000

$109,098

Commercial leased building by NTG

The Australian Red Cross Society Inc

$90,000

$91,713

Commercial leased building by NTG

$75,000

Nil

$67,500

Nil

The Scout Association of Australia NT Branch Inc

$67,500

Nil

Gap Youth and Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation

$60,000

Nil

Hamilton Downs Youth Camp Association Inc

$52,500

Nil

RDA Alice Springs Inc

$41,500

Nil

RDA Top End Inc

$41,500

Nil

TOTAL

$1,163,000

Disabled Sports Association NT Inc Girl Guides NT Inc

Table 2: Sport Service Provider Grant Program funding allocation for financial year 2013/14.

Organisation Details

Sports Service Provider Funding

Other DSRR Funding

Comments

Motorsports NT

$195,000

Office Space

Occupy office space at Motorsports house at nil cost

RLSSA (NT)

$131,250

Office Space + Other grant funding

Occupy space at Ethos House at nil cost

Sports Medicine Australia

$105,000

Nil

Firearms Council

$103,500

Office Space

Manage Mickett Creek, a NTG facility, and occupy space at the facility

TOTAL

$534,750

NT Government Funding of the Active Recreation Sector This review has considered the National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework, agreed by all Australian Governments on 10 June 2011, throughout as the current framework from which the NT Government is recommended to develop its sport and active recreation policies. This framework recognises that participation in sport and active recreation offers numerous benefits to the individual and the community through improvements in health and well-being, development of confidence and social skills, social inclusion, community development and diversion from anti-social behavior. The framework also details agreed roles and responsibilities of the State and Territory Governments in relation to supporting the sport and active recreation system. Key responsibilities in relation to this review include the following:

• Formulating and coordinating policy that prioritises the intrinsic value of sport and • • • •

active recreation and promotes sport and active recreation as tools to achieve whole of government objectives; Facilitating a strategic approach to the provision of sporting and active recreation infrastructure; Supporting service providers through consultation, advice and capacity building; Partnering with service providers to improve participation outcomes to targeted populations (e.g. disabled, indigenous, rural/remote, culturally and linguistically diverse, women and socially disadvantaged); Collaborating, engaging and partnering across government departments on shared policy agendas.

The Department of Sport, Recreation and Racing’s 2013 Corporate Plan indicates its vision is that ‘Territorians have lifelong involvement in sport and active recreation’. As a result of this vision the Department should be ensuring that the Government’s investment in the active recreation sector provides programs and facilities that are available for all sectors of the community, providing those opportunities for life-long participation. In March 2013, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) released the Market Segmentation Study (the Study) which identified the changing motivations and attitudes for individuals participation in club-based sport. Whilst the Study was related to club sport, the results do have some application to the active recreation industry. It demonstrated that there are segments of the population that were not likely to be aligned to club-based sport but still valued the benefits of leading an active lifestyle. Additionally, there are segments of the market which are critical to engage to promote the benefits of leading an active lifestyle; this engagement is likely to be more successful through active recreation organisations than through club-based sport. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released an Information Paper in 2008 titled ‘Defining Sport and Physical Activity, a Conceptual Model’. This Model provides some definitions around physical activity, ranging from sedentary to vigorous activity. It relates this physical activity scale into sport and physical recreation activities and presents a conceptual model based around sport and physical activity and the level of intensity. This model has been used to inform the review about what outcomes should be invested in, when related to the level of intensity of the active recreation activity being carried out.

It is recommended the DSRR funds active recreation programs which have an intended health benefit as well as sufficient physical activity to achieve a health benefit.

Physical activity sufficient to achieve a health benefit

Health Benefit Intended

A table describing activity and health benefits was provided in the ABS Information Paper (right) and further guides the thinking about active recreation activities to be funded.

Yes

Sedentary activity Low intensity activity

Incidental Health Benefit from physical activity

Yes

Ineffective exercise

Exercise

Active recreation is defined in the National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework as: Active recreation activities are those engaged in for the purpose of relaxation, health and wellbeing or enjoyment with the primary activity requiring physical exertion, and the primary focus on human activity Whereas sport is defined in the National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework as: A human activity involving physical exertion and skill as the primary focus of the activity, with elements of competition where rules and patterns of behavior governing the activity exist formally through organisations and is generally recognised as a sport. It is important to recognise the difference between active recreation and sport as this has a bearing on involvement by individuals. This was evident in the ASC Market Segmentation Study, where certain groups identified that the competitive environment decreased their enjoyment and ongoing participation. Therefore, having active recreation programs that provide pathways to sport is desirable but not seen as essential to attract DSRR funding in order to cater for all segments of the market. In order for an individual to have life long participation in leading a lifestyle that incorporates active recreation the figure below should be considered.

Interest

Life long participation

Engagement

Sustained participation Figure 1: Life long active recreation participation model

Active Recreation Organisations Overview Interest - The benefits, commitment and outcomes of active recreation are investigated by the individual, with a decision being made as to whether to commence participation. Activities to generate interest around active recreation are conducted by a range of organisations in a variety of sectors. Engagement – The individual has made a commitment to further pursue an active recreation program and becomes involved in an activity that has active recreation as a means of delivering its outcomes. Sustained Participation – The individual has sustained participation in active recreation activities and values the personal benefits it provides. They actively seek out active recreation organisations to cater to their needs. Life Long Participation – The individual has a life style that incorporates active recreation as part of their everyday life. They may be involved at various levels within the sector. Both Federal and Territory Governments have initiatives and programs to fund the various stages of active recreation. This review discusses that the DSRR funding should be used to assist the development and continued operation of programs and organisations operating in the Engagement and Sustained Participation areas of the above model. The Australian Government Productivity Commission released a research report in January 2010 on the ‘Contribution of the Not-For-Profit Sector’. An overview of some of the findings, as they relate to this report, are provided below. Governments fund not-for-profit organisations (NFP) to deliver services across three broad areas as follows:

• Citizen entitlements such as health care, education, justice system etc. • Social safety nets such as unemployment, disability and age pensions, housing assistance etc.

• Activities that the government assesses as having significant community benefit such as sporting clubs, environmental organisations, cultural institutions, active recreation activities etc.

The first two categories are seen as essential and the government is obliged to ensure they are provided. The third category of activities is those that are desirable to certain parts of the population.

Direct government funding to NFPs is provided in three ways Giving (or donating) to worthy scientific or charitable causes. The outputs for the funding are not defined but rather the recipient is able to decide on the best use of the funding. Shopping for (or purchasing) specialised services such as disability, health or active recreation services. The expected outputs are defined by the government and there is a level of core accountability expected of the service provider in a contract form. Investing seeks a longer-term outcome, such as developing an organisation’s or sector’s capacity and direction of activities. Accountability is through grant applications and acquittals.

Taking the way in which government provides funding to the NFP sector, questions are then raised about the level of financial commitment from government. The Productivity Commission Report found that 85% of providers disagree with the statement ‘Government funding covers the true cost of delivering contracted services’. There needs to be a full understanding of both the government and service provider, prior to engagement, about what level of funding is being provided. Should full funding of the service not be provided then an understanding of the effects of this need to be fully understood by both parties and the extent of the contribution to the organisation be well documented. It should be expected that full funding occurs for services or activities which the government considers essential or as part of the social safety net. This level of funding should include all associated on costs and program delivery costs required to effectively deliver the service on the government’s behalf. The amount, and how to fund activities that are not seen as either citizen entitlements or a social safety net, should have a net benefit test applied. This should ensure that government funding is provided in an efficient way to maximise community wellbeing. The challenge in applying a net benefit test across organisations such as those funded in this program arises due to a number of government agencies providing funding for similar community wellbeing outcomes. A more integrated service approach across agencies is likely to enhance the benefits to be provided to the community. The net benefit test should be around the following areas Likelihood of the program providing participants with sustained participation and life long participation in an active lifestyle. Ability of the organisation to develop the capacity of the community through volunteer and staff professional development; Providing additional opportunities to the community, which would not have otherwise been provided. It could be suggested the DSRR not provide funding to active recreation programs or activities being run by organisations that are focused on youth diversion, have a youth education focus, or are being coordinated by health agencies. The review believes that a cross agency approach to providing services to the community is required. The DSRR is chartered to encourage Territorians to have a lifelong participation in active recreation. So, the DSRR should use every opportunity to partner with organisations to engage with ‘at risk’ sectors of the community and provide opportunities to participate in active recreation. Often, ‘at risk’ sectors of the community are already being engaged by youth diversion or other such organisations under a Department’s charter, other than DSRR (Currently the DSRR provides funding to The Shak in Darwin, run by the Australian Red Cross NT and Gap Youth and Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation, in Alice Springs, through the Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program. These two groups engage at-risk youth in a range of programs). Therefore, the DSRR is encouraged to seek out these opportunities to provide additional learning outcomes to those participants as part of their reengagement with the community. Likewise, with youth education organisations the DSRR should take the opportunity to strengthen their relationships with organisations that can provide youth with healthy and responsible messages around maintaining active lifestyles.

‘At risk’ sectors of the community are defined for the purpose of this review, as those members of the population that are under represented in participation statistics in active recreation activities. These populations may also be over represented in health, crime and unemployment statistics. The Government has the obligation to reduce the burden to society of these sectors of the community. Research shows that engagement in sport and active recreation provides a way of encouraging positive decisions in an individual’s life. This links to the NT Government’s ‘Framing the Future’ document in the following areas: • Strong Society -- A society that is capable of making a difference: through integrated, responsive and accessible services, a focus on early intervention and prevention; and by strong collaboration in the design and delivery of services to the most vulnerable that lead to long-term outcomes and self-sustainability. -- A strong society that is safe, connected and encourages participation. • Confident Culture -- A confident culture that recognises our people and our communities are significant contributors to our prosperity. -- A confident culture that makes the most of living in the Territory. The review recommends that the NT Government should be investing in active recreation outcomes, through the DSRR as below. Investing in organisations that promote a lifelong involvement in active recreation and deliver active recreation programs to targeted sectors of the community. Active recreation activities are those engaged in for the purpose of health and wellbeing with the primary activity requiring physical exertion at a level sufficient to achieve a health benefit.

Investment by the NT Government should be directed through programs which achieve the following Assistance through funding for structured and organised programs for sectors of the community to maintain active lifestyles with defined outcomes. Such sectors of the community may be as follows: Youth at risk; or Sectors over represented in health statistics; or Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities; or Senior citizens. Assistance through funding of structured and organised programs that encourage and educate children and youth to develop a lifelong interest and participation in active recreation.

Active Recreation in the NT Organisations that make up the active recreation sector differ greatly to that of the sport sector. Their structures, outcomes and needs differ significantly and whilst there are merits to the notion that active recreation has pathways to sport, this is not always the aim nor desire of the active recreation sector. Currently, there is a range of organisations funded under the Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program. These organisations range from small groups such as Scouts NT and Girl Guides NT, who have a part-time paid employee and are largely reliant on volunteer labour, through to large organisations such as the YMCAs which have a broad range of programs and paid staff to support their programs. All of the organisations provide benefit to the community that they serve and a loss of any of these organisations would be seen as detrimental to those who access their services. All organisations believe that they meet the stated definition of providing active recreation outcomes and were able to demonstrate their reasoning through their programs. Whilst the provision of active recreation programs may not be the primary purpose of the organisation, (for instance Scouts NTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;to contribute to the education of young people, through a value system based on the Promise and Law, to help build a better world, where people are self fulfilled as individuals and play a constructive role in societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) the methods they employ to carry out their mission is one of providing active recreation outcomes. Should the NT Government decide that active recreation organisations must have a pathway to sport, in order to be funded through the DSRR investment programs, then there will be a number of organisations currently funded who will not meet this criteria. This will likely cause some political angst, whereby pressure to fund these organisations in other areas of government will result. Additionally, there will be segments of the community which will not engage with the programs as they have a negative perception about sport. The review recommends that the NT Government invests in Active Recreation Organisations which have a long-term commitment to the NT Community to provide sustainable programs that meet the definition of active recreation. Active Recreation Organisations should cater to a broad cross-section of the community. An Active Recreation Organisation is therefore defined as below. An Active Recreation Organisation is one where the promotion and conduct of active recreation activities and programs is the primary focus of the organisation. Those organisations that do not meet the definition of an active recreation organisation, but do provide active recreation outcomes as part of the services they provide to the community, should also be considered for funding. The review recommends that these organisations are considered differently to active recreation organisations, but their relevance to the community and role they play in keeping Territorians active is acknowledged. The review recommends that the NT Government support programs that engage sectors of the community through active recreation for an extended period, with the aim being to assist Territorians maintain a lifelong involvement in sport and active recreation activities.

A program that provides engagement through active recreation would have to meet the following definition. An active recreation program is one that engages its targeted sector of the community for an extended period through active recreation as the program’s core focus. All organisations which are to be funded need to demonstrate the appropriate level of governance and financial maturity in order for the Government to have the confidence to invest in their capability to deliver programs for the benefit of the community. The funding which Government provides these organisations must be used to develop and deliver sustainable active recreation programs whilst maintaining appropriate governance and financial controls to ensure longevity in the organisation. There are a range of ‘get active’ programs sponsored by health agencies and organisations, City Councils and other not-for-profit organisations such as Hoops For Health that encourage people to get active and seek out long term active recreation activities within the community. These are seen primarily as health promotions in the ‘interest’ stage of the active recreation model discussed earlier. The review believes that whilst health organisations conduct healthy living promotions that include active recreation outcomes, these promotions should not be funded by the DSRR. It is the ongoing, long-term active recreation organisations and programs that the community is encouraged to seek out as part of these promotions that should be funded by the DSRR. However, the DSRR should have a working relationship with other agencies to develop a cohesive community engagement strategy for active recreation. This will help to develop sustainability in the active recreation provider sector.

Sport Service Providers in the NT The Sport Service Providers Grant Program was created for the financial year 2013/14 due to the changes to the Peak Sporting Body (PSB) investment model. As a result of these changes four organisations did not fit the criteria to be considered a PSB. This was due to the following reasons: • The organisation does not deliver a sport pathway; and/or • The organisation does not have a club or membership structure that it represents to a National Sporting Organisation recognised by the Australian Sports Commission. The current sport service providers all have a role to play in the sports industry to varying levels and across a broad range of expertise. Each organisation’s role is significantly different to the next which means that any funding criteria to be developed must be flexible enough to allow for this. The role of the sport service providers to assist the PSBs in delivering their outcomes is crucial. Without some of these organisations then sectors of the sport industry would have to rely on other non-specialist support to deliver their outcomes. The review recommends that the government needs to assess each organisation’s contribution to the sporting community and further assess it as essential or desirable. An essential service would likely attract a higher level of funding than one that is desirable and where a non-government organisation delivers a service.

Comparisons to other State Governments and Other Providers Providing a comparison to other State and Territory Governments and the way in which they fund active recreation organisations and sport service providers has proved difficult. The level of funding has varied significantly with NT organisations being funded at a much higher level through the DSRR compared to other State sport and recreation departments. Probably due to the larger population base in other jurisdictions, organisations have to rely on for member contributions and the different grant structures across State and Territory Governments. Therefore, comparisons would not draw any clear information for the purpose of this review. There are other organisations however which other States fund and/or currently operate in the NT or that may believe they fit the proposed criteria. These are listed below: • • • • • • •

Police and Citizen Youth Club Duke of Edinburgh Award Hoops for Health Reclink Playgym, Playgroup House – Darwin Various Military Cadet organisations Commercial active recreation providers such as: -- Laser Skirmish -- KJ’s Entertainment -- Ten Pin Bowling centres -- Flight Path Golf and Outdoor Recreation -- The Rock, Rockclimbing Gym -- Gyms / Fitness Studios

The eligibility of any of these organisations will be driven by the criteria of the grant program and against the policy direction by the government.

Summary of Review Recommendations The review aims to provide the Department of Sport, Recreations and Racing (DSRR) with a strategic approach to funding active recreation outcomes and to organisations that support sport in the NT. There have been significant changes over the years of the Program, including a change in Government; therefore, some significant changes are required to reflect the new state of operating. The following recommendations are presented, with further commentary provided in the report.

Active Recreation Organisations Organisational Recommendations 1. DSRR encourage the Minister for Sport, Recreation and Racing to develop Government policies on sport and active recreation. Clear outcomes and objectives for the funding should be defined and subsequently measured. 2. DSRR is the lead agency for developing a sound framework and pathway for disabled sport in the NT. 3. That while the DSRR is the lead agency for active recreation programs, it forms a working relationship with key Departments that focus on youth and health initiatives, thus ensuring shared policy agendas. 4. Future expansion of active recreation services to key regional areas such as Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek are explored, through existing funded active recreation providers or alternate providers. This will compliment current services in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine and Alice Springs.

Financial Management Recommendations 5. Suitable and eligible organisations are funded for a three-year period, with annual reviews, similar to the Peak Sporting Bodies Investment Program. 6. The funding framework provides clear direction on the expectations of the organisations at various levels of funding. This will demonstrate the level of capacity and capability required of the organisations to be eligible for increased funding. The level of governance expectations should align to the Peak Sporting Body Investment Model. 7. As part of the development of policies on active recreation, clear outcomes are defined on what government will fund as full or partial contributions to service providers. 8. The DSRR provide support to all Active Recreation Organisations that require it, to develop strategic infrastructure plans which can then be used to inform the Government of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s infrastructure needs in a timely manner.

Performance Management Recommendations 9. The acquittal process is kept as simple as possible for funded organisations and inline with current procedures.

10. A clear timeline is developed for the framework to ensure organisations can receive their funding in a timely manner.

Investment Model Recommendations 11. The following organisations are considered for funding as an active recreation organisation, on a triennial agreement with an annual review against the recommended framework. • • • • • • • • •

YMCA Top End YMCA Alice Springs YMCA Katherine Life. Be In It Alice Springs Youth and Community Centre Total Recreation NT Disability Sport NT Riding for the Disabled in the Top End Riding for the Disabled Alice Springs

12. Girl Guides NT are not considered for further funding until all recent audited financials are submitted to the DSRR and the Department of Business. 13. DSRR work with YMCA Alice Springs to ensure that the services they provide with funding from DSRR meet the targeted outcomes and sectors of the community as directed. 14. The following organisations are considered for funding for active recreation programs, on a triennial agreement with an annual review. • • • •

Scouts NT Girl Guides NT Gap Youth Centre Australian Red Cross NT (The Shak)

15. DSRR consider transferring the funding provided to Hamilton Downs Youth Camp to the Commission of the NT Parks and Wildlife for their ongoing administration of this Government funding.

Sport Service Providers Organisational Recommendations 16. As part of the development of policies on sport the role Sports Service Providers have is clearly defined.

Financial Management Recommendations 17. As part of the development of policies on sport, clear outcomes are defined on what government will fund as full or partial contributions to service providers.

Performance Management Recommendations Nil

Investment Model Recommendations 18. The following organisation is considered for funding as an ancillary service to the sport industry, on a triennial agreement with an annual review against the recommended framework. • Sports Medicine NT 19. DSRR work with Sports Medicine NT, as the primary sports medicine provider to sporting clubs, to understand the role that they have in assisting sport to be conducted in safe environments within the relevant OH&S regulations and other requirements. They should be funded to expand into other key areas outside of Darwin/Palmerston and Alice Springs. 20. The following organisations are funded separate to this or other grant programs, with their own set of KPI’s, in a similar fashion to the Thoroughbred and Greyhound Racing sectors through the DSRR. • Motorsports NT • NT Firearms Council Inc 21. DSRR works with Motorsports NT to have a full understanding of the financial position and strategic direction of the organisation to assess its ongoing funding level from the DSRR. 22. DSRR works with the Firearms Council NT Inc. to review their needs around funding to effectively fulfill their regulatory needs. 23. Further discussions occur with Royal Life Saving Society Australia (NT) to define where they sit in the funding frameworks of the DSRR. A whole of organisation approach should be taken to funding the services the NT Government wants RLSSA(NT) to deliver. Consideration should also be given to the Life Saving model implemented in Victoria, with the combination of Royal Life Saving Society Australia and Surf Lifesaving. A summary of currently funded organisations and how they may be funded in the recommended structure is provided overleaf in Table 3.

Table 3: Recommended funding framework for current AROs and SSPs for financial year 2014/15. Serial

Organisation

Current Funding Level

Remarks

Active Recreation Organisations or Sport Industry Service Providers 1

Alice Springs Youth and Community Centre

$120,000

Life Be In It NT Inc

$120,000

Total Recreation NT Inc

$112,500

YMCA of Central Australia Inc

$105,000

YMCA of Katherine

$105,000

YMCA of the Top End Inc

$105,000

Disabled Sports Association NT Inc

$75,000

RDA Alice Springs Inc

$41,500

RDA Top End Inc

$41,500

Sports Medicine Australia

$105,000

To be invited to apply to receive Capacity Funding of up to $40,000pa and Program Funding of up to $80,000pa.

Active Recreation Program Delivery 11 12

The Australian Red Cross Society Inc Girl Guides NT Inc

$90,000 $67,500

The Scout Association of Australia NT Branch Inc

$67,500

Gap Youth and Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation

$60,000

To be invited to apply for Program Funding only of up to $80,000pa.

To be funded separate to this Grant Program by the DSRR 15

Motorsports NT

$195,000

See recommendation 20

RLSSA (NT)

$131,250

See recommendation 23

Firearms Council

$103,500

See recommendation 20

To be funded by another NTG Department 18

Hamilton Downs Youth Camp Association Inc

$52,500

See recommendation 15

Active Recreation Organisations Below is a summary of the discussions held with the active recreation organisations. These discussion points have been grouped into three areas, being, organisational objectives, financial management and performance measures. Recommendations are also provided throughout.

Organisational Objectives Active Recreation Organisations cater to a wider range of the community than sports organisations traditionally do. Their non-competitive focus, often with a varied range of activities catering to a broad mix of the community ensures that there is a range of participants across the Investment Program. Active recreation is used as a means to enhance the social fabric of the community, providing social interaction in a safe environment, which enhances a sense of belonging for the participants. Often the non-threating environment of the organisation provides participants with a first step to address lifestyle and health issues. Some organisations had a limited pathway to sport; however, this was seen as an incidental outcome for some participants rather than a desired outcome for all participants of the programs. Some of the organisations are not considered active recreation organisations but do deliver active recreation outcomes through their program. For example, Australian Red Cross NT runs the Shak Youth Centre. Neither the Australian Red Cross NT, nor the Shak, have their primary purpose as being an active recreation organisation. However, the Shak engages the youth it services through active recreation programs to provide social interaction and a sense of belonging. The Government needs to determine its support to the recreation industry as a whole and how active recreation fits into this. Should the Government determine that active recreation should have a pathway to sport, then a large portion of the currently funded organisations would struggle to meet KPIs around this. The review found that the DSRR has a part to play in providing strategic and operational support to the outcomes the organisations are being expected to deliver. The following findings around organisational objectives are noted: • The NT Government does not have a Sport or Active Recreation Policy. • There is no DSRR direction on how the currently funded organisations are to service a wide range of the community through active recreation, ensuring that there is limited overlap across the service providers whilst ensuring that under represented and at risk sectors of the community are being targeted with government funding. Desired outcomes for funding need to be developed, these should be considered around the following: • Programs that promote life long participation in leading a lifestyle that incorporates active recreation; • Targeting key health benefits; • Providing social inclusion and social development; • Providing personal development; and • Providing diversion from crime and anti social behavior.

The disability sport sector is poorly understood. The current organisations that are funded are meeting a need; however, there is limited strategic support from Government. More work needs to be done to assist in linking the disability sport sector with mainstream sporting bodies and pathways and expanding the services to regional areas of the NT outside of Darwin. There is no clear link between the Departments of Health, Education and Justice and the Office for Youth Affairs in particular, to ensure that funds provided to the organisations are used effectively and efficiently for maximum community benefit. The focus of the current organisations active recreation programs is centered around Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine and Alice Springs. There are no active recreation programs funded through the DSRR in Tennant Creek or Nhulunbuy.

Recommendations 1. DSRR encourage the Minister for Sport, Recreation and Racing to develop Government policies on sport and active recreation. Clear outcomes and objectives for the funding should be defined and subsequently measured. 2. DSRR is the lead agency for developing a sound framework and pathway for disabled sport in the NT. 3. That while the DSRR is the lead agency for active recreation programs, it forms a working relationship with key Departments that focus on youth and health initiatives, thus ensuring shared policy agendas. 4. Future expansion of active recreation services to key regional areas such as Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek are explored, through existing funded active recreation providers or alternate providers. This will complement current services in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine and Alice Springs.

Financial Management An organisation’s level of capacity often relies heavily on the funding provided by the NT Government. For all of the organisations the funding is primarily used to assist in the employment of program staff and associated program costs. All of the organisations felt that with more funding they could deliver better and wider ranging programs. The additional 50% funding provided in 2012 was primarily used to reduce the organisations reliance on other funding sources (such as fundraising and member fees), freeing up staff time to further develop the organisations programs or increase staff hours to further develop outcomes. Many of the organisations said that the current funding provided by the NT Government does not cover the full cost of delivering active recreation programs. The programs are often subsidised by commercial arms of the organisation, other grants, membership or program fees or private and corporate sponsorship. The review believes that not-for-profit organisations (NFP) need to be given the flexibility to operate in their given space, with limited government interference to the operational outputs. Once the Government has identified that the organisation provides a valuable service to the community and should be provided financial support, then the NFP should be given the opportunity to provide the service as they see fit. They should also be given the freedom and support to be innovative within their area of expertise. The following findings around financial management are noted: • Many of the organisations are dependent on NTG funding for their ongoing operation and are often funded on a year-to-year basis. Some have limited additional income sources and have a limited capacity to increase their income. The NTG needs to work closer with these organisations to ensure they are more secure in their funding and are able to develop their organisation with some certainty over a longer period. • There is no clear policy on the way in which funding levels are determined for each organisation, nor how they can increase their funding for initiatives which will further benefit the community. • There is no clear understanding on if the government believes it is providing full funding of the services or a contribution to services only. • Infrastructure is ageing across the sector and the organisations rely on ‘just in time’ funding to continue operating from these facilities or for upgrades. Often significant resources from the organisations are used to maintain the facilities and seek out grant funding for capital upgrades. Additionally, these organisations often lobby Government for funding, thus tying up Government resources to establish the veracity and need of the proposal.

Recommendations 5. Suitable and eligible organisations are funded for a three-year period, with annual reviews, similar to the Peak Sporting Bodies Investment Program. 6. The funding framework provides clear direction on the expectations of the organisations at various levels of funding. This will demonstrate the level of capacity and capability required of the organisations to be eligible for increased funding. The level of governance expectations should align to the Peak Sporting Body Investment Model.

7. As part of the development of policies on active recreation, clear outcomes are defined on what government will fund as full or partial contributions to service providers. 8. The DSRR provide support to all Active Recreation Organisations that require it, to develop strategic infrastructure plans which can then be used to inform the Government of the industry’s infrastructure needs in a timely manner.

Performance Measures Whilst sport is able to measure its participation rates through memberships, participation rates within the AROs can vary from week to week and at times be difficult to capture. Organisations felt that their measures of success were linked to the following areas: • • • • • • • •

Participation numbers; Community engagement being support from targeted members of the community; Positive feedback from the community on program delivery; Achievement of strategic goals; Retention of staff; Financial stability; Knowledge of the organisation and programs offered within the community; and Volunteer support of the organisation.

Organisations felt that the current grant acquittal process was simple and provided an adequate level of accountability of the grant to Government. They were concerned that should the acquittal process be overly burdensome or linked to other grants then this would increase administration and potentially delay the provision of funding to the organisation.

Recommendations 9. The acquittal process is kept as simple as possible for funded organisations and inline with current procedures. 10. A clear timeline is developed for the framework to ensure organisations can receive their funding in a timely manner.

Overview Below is an overview of the financial position of each funded organisation based on the latest available financial reports lodged with the Department of Business. These are either for Financial Year 2011/12 or 2012/13 reports. Also summarised is what the DSRR funding is used for and any other pertinent information about the organisation. Active Recreation Organisations – Darwin (8) YMCA Top End – The YMCA Top End operates the Drop In Centre at Palmerston. The DSRR funding accounts for less than 10% of the total income for the YMCA Top End across all operations and the organisation has approximately $1.5M of cash reserves The DSRR funding contributes to the following: • Employment of staff for the Drop In Centre; and • Program operation costs. The Drop In centre is run from a NTG leased facility, which is managed also through the DSRR. It caters for all ages of the community; however, youth and senior citizens predominantly attend its programs. The Centre provides a range of active recreation activities that engage its participants whilst also providing access to the sporting facilities managed by the YMCA Top End. Scouts NT – Scouts NT operates across the NT in Darwin, Palmerston/Rural, Katherine, Nhulunbuy and Alice Springs for the benefit of both male and female participants. Scouts NT has approximately $40,000 in cash reserves and the DSRR funding represents approximately 35% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of staff in the NT HQ; • Support Scouts NT HQ operational activities; and • Support board governance requirements. The focus of the organisation is youth development, with the method of achieving this through learning by doing. Scouts is a Registered Training Organisation and provides progressional training to its leaders in business, frontline management, leadership and outdoor recreation. Additionally, Scouts is affiliated with the Duke of Edinburgh Award which has a large component of physical recreation and adventurous journey activity requirements in the award. Whilst the primary purpose of Scouts is not active recreation, the methodology they use to develop youth and provide training opportunities for adult leaders is centered on active recreation outcomes. Girl Guides NT – Girl Guides NT operates in Darwin, Palmerston/Rural, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, with over 300 members. Girl Guides NT has approximately $115,000 in cash reserves and the DSRR funding represents approximately 35% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of staff in the NT HQ; • Support Girl Guides NT operational activities; and • Support board governance requirements. They provide girls and young women with values based training in life skills, decision-making and leadership. A large number of the challenges in the Girl Guides curriculum are related to active recreation and outdoors. Girl Guides NT is also affiliated with the Duke of Edinburgh award.

Whilst the primary purpose of Girl Guides is not active recreation, the methodology they use to develop youth and provide training opportunities for adult leaders is centered on active recreation outcomes. Reviewer Comment: The latest financial audits available for Girl Guides NT through both the DSRR and the Department of Business is for Financial Year ending 31 December 2010. All outstanding financial audits should be presented prior to any further funding being released to Girl Guides NT Total Recreation NT – Total Recreation NT offers programs in the Darwin/Palmerston region only. The majority of their funding is from Government, with approximately 25% of their total funding being from the DSRR. Total Recreation provides only an acquittal against the program they are funded for, not an organisational audit. The DSRR funding contributes to the following: • Employ program staff to run after school active recreation and sport activities. • Provide support to operational costs of the programs. They provide opportunities for people with a disability to be involved in recreation and sporting activities. Their main service is to people with an intellectual disability; however, they also provide services to those with physical, mental and sensory disabilities. The programs provide a defined pathway to mainstream sport. Currently programs in ten pin bowling, gymnastics, swimming and athletics are offered, but only in the Darwin/Palmerston areas. Disabled Sports Association NT – Disabled Sports Association NT are predominately based in Darwin, but also service Katherine and Alice Springs. They have cash reserves of approximately $159,000 and the DSRR funding represents over 70% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employ program staff to run after school active recreation and sport activities. • Provide support to operational costs of the programs. They are members of Disability Sport Australia, which is recognised by the Australian Sports Commission. They provide services to assist individuals with a disability to get involved in sport. Primarily they work with Peak Sporting Bodies and Clubs to assist in developing pathways for individuals with a disability, or assist in establishing activities such as wheelchair basketball. In the NT, the primary sports they are currently involved in, , are basketball, tennis, lawn bowls and swimming. They have wheelchairs suitable for wheelchair basketball in Darwin used in a competition at DBA; a set of refurbished wheelchairs soon to be used in a competition in conjunction with YMCA of the Top End in Palmerston; and there is a set of wheelchairs in Alice Springs (funded through an initiative by Basketball Australia, but not owned by Disabled Sports Association NT). Life. Be In It – Life. Be In It are currently only based in Darwin but are looking to expand to Alice Springs and Katherine. They have cash reserves of approximately $155,000 and the DSRR funding represents approximately 50% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employ staff to run active recreation activities. • Provide support to operational costs of the programs. They provide opportunities for Territorians to live a healthy and active lifestyle. Currently they

are only based in Darwin, with some development work occurring for involvement in Remote Community festivals. Additionally from Term 2 of 2014 they are looking to deliver their Mini Sports Program into Katherine and Alice Springs. Riding for the Disabled Top End – RDA Top End manage a facility in the rural area of Darwin that is on a Crown Lease and are responsible for its maintenance. They have cash reserves of approximately $8,000 and the DSRR funding represents approximately 30% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employ staff to manage the facility and programs. They operate 6 days a week and cater for riders aged between 3 – 85 years old, however the majority of their riders are aged 5 – 18 years old. Their riders are both able-bodied and disabled. They have 18 horses and cater for approximately 75 riders per week with 25 active volunteers. They have links with a number of government departments, including Education, Youth Services, Corrections and the Soldier Recovery Centre at Robertson Barracks. Currently they are running at capacity and with more funding could grow the services they currently offer. Reviewer Comment: See reviewer comment for Riding for the Disabled Alice Springs. Australian Red Cross NT – The Australian Red Cross NT offers a range of services, however the DSRR funding is used to support the Shak Youth Centre in the Darwin Northern Suburbs. The DSRR funding accounts for around 40% of the operational budget for the centre. The remainder of the funding comes from the Red Cross through donations and their commercial arms. The Australian Red Cross NT has only provided an Annual Report on the whole organisation, therefore specific financial information around The Shak could not be gained. The DSRR funding contributes to the following: • Employment of staff to manage the active recreation programs of the Shak. • Contribute to operational costs for the active recreation programs. The lease of the facility that the Shak operates out of is not included in these figures, which DSRR also funds separately. The Centre is open from Wednesday to Saturday and is staffed by Youth Workers. A range of programs and spaces are offered by the Centre, including basketball, AFL, boxing and leadership activities. Daily attendance ranges from 20 – 60 depending on the time of year. Active Recreation Organisations – Alice Springs (4) Gap Youth and Community Centre – The Gap Youth and Community Centre operates in Alice Springs. They have cash reserves of approximately $479,000 and the DSRR funding represents less than 10% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of staff to manage the active recreation programs of the Youth Centre. • Contribute to operational costs for the active recreation programs. They provide activities and programs (such as the gym, boxing, basketball etc) in a safe environment, mainly targeted at indigenous youth. Participant numbers fluctuate between 10 – 30

per evening. The Centre relies on a wide range of grants to operate and tries to limit its reliance on volunteers to ensure it has consistency in its programs. Reviewer Comment: There is an opportunity for the Gap Youth and Community Centre to provide additional services to the wider community and potentially have a greater impact on the targeted sectors of youth in particular. Alice Springs Youth and Community Centre – The Centre provides a range of active recreation and sporting opportunities to the Alice Springs Community. They have cash reserves of approximately $202,000 and the DSRR funding represents approximately 40% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of a full time manager, a part time programs officer and part time cleaner. Volunteers run all the activities with some activities attracting a fee to cover operational costs. The centre programs cater for a wide range of participants with ‘kindergym’, youth gymnastics, martials arts, boxing and roller derby programs currently offered. The Public Servants gym is also located within the centre. Additionally, the Centre provides the Alice Springs Community with a number of spaces to hold meetings or large gatherings at minimal cost. Hamilton Downs Youth Camp – The Hamilton Downs Youth Camp is located 1.5hrs from Alice Springs, 25kms off the Tanami Highway. They have cash reserves of approximately $70,000 and the DSRR funding represents around 80% of the total income for the organisation and contributes to the following: • Facility caretakers; • Board governance and administration support; • Marketing of the Camp. The Hamilton Downs Youth Centre uses its DSRR funding to employ facility caretakers through the Gray Nomads scheme. These people undertake caretaker responsibilities for the facility on a shortterm basis The Camp provides a secure and safe accommodation facility to conduct environmental education for a range of groups, including schools groups and Junior Rangers. The Camp does not deliver active recreation programs, but rather provides a facility from which groups can conduct outdoor recreation activities. The Hamilton Downs Youth Centre does not provide any programs or staff support to the users of the facility, but rather provides organised groups (school groups, youth groups etc) with a facility from which to base themselves. Reviewer Comment: The Hamilton Downs Youth Camp is a valuable asset to the Northern Territory and Central Australia in particular. It provides a well-utilised facility for a range of groups to access the outdoor environment. However, the suitability of it being funded under programs administered by the DSRR is questioned. Given its purpose and location it may be better serviced by being funded through the Commission of the NT Parks and Wildlife. YMCA Alice Springs – The YMCA Alice Springs operates from a number of facilities in Alice Springs.

They have cash reserves of approximately $107,000 and the DSRR funding represents less than 10% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • To employ a fulltime Programs Officer. This Programs Officer coordinates all of the YMCA active recreation programs, from exercise classes to indoor rockwall, pryme movers and teen gym programs etc. For all of these programs participants are required to pay a fee or be members. Many of the services are run at below market rates to ensure a broader range of the community can access the services. Reviewer Comment: Whilst there is no doubt that the services the YMCA provides are valued by the community, it is questioned whether there are commercial services being subsidised by the DSRR funding. To employ a Programs Officer, who oversees commercial operations of the facility such as fitness studios and gyms as well as other programs, may not be the best use of this funding from a Government perspective and be seen as providing a competitive edge against businesses such as Essential Fitness or Anytime Fitness in Alice Springs. Riding for the Disabled Alice Springs – RDA Alice Springs manages a facility at the Alice Springs Showgrounds. They have cash reserves of approximately $118,000 and the DSRR funding represents less than 30% of the total income for the organisation and contributes to the following: • Employ staff to manage the facility and programs. They have a full-time coach and centre manager and also cater to a wide range of the community; both able-bodied and disabled of which 70% of their clients are indigenous. They have on average 70 riders over the month and have five horses. Reviewer Comment: Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia is a recognised NSO with the ASC; however there is no PSB (RDA NT) operating in the NT. Given that both NT based RDA groups operate very separately and provide independent services to the community in which they are based, having a NT PSB is seen as adding in a level of administration and bureaucracy that is not required. Therefore, the NT based RDA’s do not qualify for the PSB Investment Program but should be considered within a DSRR investment program. Active Recreation Organisations – Katherine (1) YMCA Katherine – The YMCA operates one large facility in Katherine that has an indoor roller skating rink, gymnasium fitness centre and group fitness room. It also operates the Katherine Swimming Pool on behalf of the Council. They have cash reserves of approximately $438000 and the DSRR funding represents less than 10% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of a sport and recreation officer; • Operation of youth active recreation programs. A recent change in management at the YMCA has resulted in some organisational structure and program changes. The new manager is looking to have more focus in sport and active recreation program delivery in the region.

Overview of Funding A summary of the funding amounts for financial year 2013/14 for each organisation funded under the Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program is shown in Table 4. Table 4: Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program funding allocation for financial year 2013/14. Organisation Details

Active Recreation Funding

Other DSRR Funding

Comments

Alice Springs Youth and Community Centre

$120,000

Nil

Life Be In It NT Inc Total Recreation NT Inc YMCA of Central Australia Inc

$120,000 $112,500 $105,000

Nil Nil Nil

YMCA of Katherine

$105,000

Building provided FOC

NTG building with no lease in place. NTG undertake all R&M

YMCA of the Top End Inc

$105,000

$109,098

Commercial leased building by NTG

$90,000

$91,713

Commercial leased building by NTG

$75,000

Nil

$67,500

Nil

The Scout Association of Australia NT Branch Inc

$67,500

Nil

Gap Youth and Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation

$60,000

Nil

Hamilton Downs Youth Camp Association Inc

$52,500

Nil

RDA Alice Springs Inc RDA Top End Inc

$41,500 $41,500

Nil Nil

TOTAL

$1,163,000

The Australian Red Cross Society Inc Disabled Sports Association NT Inc Girl Guides NT Inc

Recommendations 11. The following organisations are considered for funding as an active recreation organisation, on a triennial agreement with an annual review against the recommended framework. • • • • • • • • •

Scouts NT Girl Guides NT Gap Youth Centre Australian Red Cross NT (The Shak)

15. DSRR consider transferring the funding provided to Hamilton Downs Youth Camp to the Commission of the NT Parks and Wildlife for their ongoing administration of this Government funding.

Sport Service Providers There follows a summary of the discussions held with the sport service providers. These discussion points have been grouped into three areas, being, organisational objectives, financial management and performance measures. Recommendations are also provided throughout

Organisational Objectives Sport Service Providers are currently a group of four organisations who have previously been funded under the now Peak Sporting Body Investment Program, or previously in the Active Recreation Organisation Grant Program. These organisations are not considered a Peak Sporting Body as they do not provide a sport pathway as recognised by the Australian Sports Commission. Three of the four organisations agree with this, whereas RLSSA (NT) believes that Pool Lifesaving should be considered a sport. The organisations all align themselves to the sport industry as opposed to the active recreation industry. â&#x20AC;˘ The service that these organisations provide to the sport industry is at times poorly understood. The DSRR should be looking for ways to endorse the providers under this Investment Program or others as the preferred provider to PSBs.

Recommendations 16. As part of the development of policies on sport, the role Sports Service Providers is clearly defined.

Financial Management The organisations level of capacity often relies heavily on the funding provided by NTG. For all of the Sport Service Providers their DSRR funding is primarily used to assist in the employment of organisation staff and operating costs. All of the organisations felt that with more funding they could deliver better and wider ranging services. The additional 50% funding provided in 2012 was primarily used to reduce the organisations reliance on other funding sources (such as fundraising and member/program fees), freeing up staff time to further develop the organisation’s programs. Two of the four organisations (Motorsports NT and NT Firearms Council) relied mainly on the DSRR funding for survival, as they have limited areas to generate income. This is not due to poor management of the organisation, but rather the way in which the business has been established, in both cases at the behest of the government of the day.

Recommendations 17. As part of the development of policies on sport, clear outcomes are defined on what government will fund as full or partial contributions to service providers.

Performance Measures Performance measures for the Sport Service Providers relates primarily to the area of the sport industry in which they service. Therefore, they are more customer focused than membership focused. They measure their success in the following ways: • • • • • • • •

Participation numbers in programs and education sessions; Support from member clubs or stakeholders; Positive feedback from their stakeholders; Achievement of strategic goals; Retention of staff; Financial stability; Knowledge of the organisation and programs offered within the community; and Volunteer support of the organisation.

Recommendations Nil – Inline with previous recommendations.

Overview Below is an overview of the financial position of each funded organisation based on the latest available financial reports lodged with the Department of Business. These are either for Financial Year 2011/12 of 2012/13 reports. Also summarised is what the DSRR funding is used for and any other pertinent information about the organisation. Motorsports NT – Motorsports NT provides a level of support to motorsport in the NT, ensuring safety, promoting good governance within clubs and being an advocate on the sports behalf. They have cash reserves of approximately $123,000 and the DSRR funding represents more than 75% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of a part time Executive Officer; • Provide financial support to clubs in the following areas: -- Competitor Travel to events - $3,000 -- Major Events - $3,000 -- Officials Training - $1,000 • Support marketing and promotion of motorsports in the NT. Currently, Motorsports NT has 16 affiliated clubs across the NT, from a range of motor sports. These organisations pay $1,000 to affiliate. In addition, $5,000 is available to each club should they be hosting a National titles competition in the NT. The additional 50% funding was used to engage a consultant to conduct a communication and marketing survey and implement an ongoing marketing plan to promote motor sports in the NT. The funding discussed in this review does not take into account the funding government provides for motor sport facility maintenance and operations. Motorsports NT consider themselves the motor racing peak body and aim to provide a peak body service to the racing industry, except they do not provide any sport pathways. All of their affiliated clubs are affiliated directly with the relevant national body, for example the Darwin Karting Association is affiliated with the Australian Karting Association. Motorsports NT believe that a number of issues need to be addressed to ensure that they are financially stable and able to continue to offer the level of support to their clubs as they currently do. These are summarised below: • T he current level of funding does not allow further clubs to affiliate whilst continuing to provide the same financial support to the clubs as is currently. Motorsports NT believes that as additional clubs affiliate then their funding should increase by at least $7,000 (being the current amount offered to support clubs). • Motorsports NT has limited opportunities for revenue growth for its own operations. As it does not run any pathways, nor manage the motor sports complex, it has no opportunities to sell. • Fundraising as a separate entity would impact negatively on its clubs also operating in the same environment. Reviewer Comment: Motorsports is a high participation sport and government invests heavily in the sport. This is through support to maintain and manage facilities, bringing major events to the NT and by funding Motorsports NT at the highest level currently available to Peak Sporting Bodies (being the grant program where Motorsports NT has previously been funded). Prior to Government providing additional funding to Motorsports NT

as is requested, the review believes that a stronger financial case needs to be delivered by Motorsports NT. A review of the current areas of expenditure against a strategic plan for growth of the organisation needs to be presented. This review does not believe that the current financial model of providing each club up to $7,000 per annum is either sustainable nor may it be in the best interests of the sport for its continued growth. Sports Medicine NT – Sports Medicine NT is affiliated to Sports Medicine Australia and they provide sports medicine services to the sporting community in the NT. They have cash reserves of approximately $190,000 and the DSRR funding represents more than 75% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of one full time and two part time staff members. They have a multi-disciplined membership of 49 NT Members, ranging from physiotherapists, exercise physiologists to medical doctors. They are a professional body that provides training, advice and sports medicine services to individuals, clubs, PSB’s and the community. They believe that there are significant issues within sports around the understanding of OH&S Legislation and training requirements that need to be urgently addressed. They consider that they have a part to play in providing this education and advice. They have a wide range of professionals who they can access to provide sports with appropriately qualified individuals providing risk assessments and coverage. The organisation is largely funded through the DSRR grant and their focus with additional funding would be around more education including to regional and remote areas. Their training capacity is currently only focused in the Darwin/Palmerston and Alice Springs regions. One of the main services they provide is sport medicine training, relevant to the sports community. For example, they run a Senior First Aid course with a sport focus - an equivalent qualification to that provided by St John’s. Additionally, they facilitate sports medicine services at major events such as the Alice Springs Masters Games. Royal Life Saving Society Australia (NT) – The core purpose of RLSSA (NT) is to prevent the loss of life around aquatic environments. RLSSA (NT) conducts Pool Lifesaving as part of their training and education role. Pool Lifesaving is not recognised by the ASC as a sport; however, it does have National and International carnivals. RLSSA (NT) believes that the DSRR should recognise the sport of Pool Lifesaving as this is what they use the Sport Service Provider funding to deliver. Across Darwin and Alice Springs there are approximately 80 active participants in the sport, with Pool Lifesaving also being used as part of the delivery method of their education programs in regional and remote areas. They have cash reserves of approximately $713,000 and the Pool Lifesaving takes up approximately 10% of the organisations output in both time and budget. The DSRR funding is used to fund the following: • RLSSA (NT) Executive Officer • Two Pool Lifesaving events and four carnivals. RLSSA (NT) and Surf Lifesaving NT both have the same core purpose; however, Surf Lifesaving is funded as a PSB as their sport is recognised by the ASC, whereas Pool Lifesaving is not. Both organisations are competing for a similar market and communicating similar messages around

water safety, albeit in two different environments: surf and coastal waters; swimming pool and inland waters. Reviewer Comment: If RLSSA (NT) were considered for funding of the sport of Pool Lifesaving under the current PSB Investment Model, then they would not meet the criteria that would enable them to maintain their current funding level. Given their current participation numbers in a club environment, they would fit into Tier 3 sport requirements, which would have funding of less than $80,000, a reduction of around $50,000 from current funding levels. The review believes that without a clear direction on where RLSAA (NT) wishes to proceed, further consultation is required with RLSSA (NT). Also, given other changes to the government funding of RLSSA (NT) it is believed that a whole of organisation approach needs to be taken to government funding of RLSSA (NT). This would look at what government is funding RLSSA (NT) to deliver and what is required in terms of resources and funding to do this. Should RLSSA (NT) still believe that they wish to have Pool Lifesaving funded as a sport, they would have to meet the requirements of the PSB investment model. Consideration should also be given to investigating the Life Saving Victoria model, where Surf Lifesaving and RLSSA have amalgamated their organisations to deliver their core purpose. This could be achieved in the NT, providing efficiencies in government funding and resources as well as having an increased effect on education across the NT on water safety. NT Firearms Council – The NT Firearms Council is an incorporated consultative and advisory body representing the interests of legitimate firearms owners and users throughout the NT. The Council forms an integral part of the Firearms Advisory Council, established under the NT Firearms Act. Also, a police officer nominated by the Commissioner and other persons appointed by the Minister is appointed to this Advisory Council. They have cash reserves of approximately $222,000 and the DSRR funding represents more than 90% of the total income for the organisation, which contributes to the following: • Employment of a part time Executive Officer; • Organisation and running of information sessions and distribution of information material around key issues. The DSRR funding is the only funding provided to the Council to carry out its role and it has no sources to generate any income. There are 20 members of the NT Firearms Council, which represent the various legitimate gun users such as, Peak Sporting Bodies, gun dealers, gunsmiths, professional users, environment/ conservation, training providers, security industry etc. The membership structure is such that it is unlikely to grow as it is representatives of gun users, rather than individuals which are members. The NT Firearms Council also manage the Mickett Creek Shooting Complex (a NT Government owned facility) which is predominately used by shooting clubs. The Council has a broad range of links across the gun user community and is involved at a range of levels from infrastructure management, policy advice, communication with Police and fulfilling its statutory obligations. Throughout all of this they are to remain an independent body to be able to carry out these roles.

Review Comment: Whilst the NT Firearms Council covers a broad range of government and community representation, it is believed that continuing to fund it from one Department will be the most efficient. Given that the DSRR is investigating the way in which it funds the range of firearms PSBs and that the NT Firearms Council may have a role to play in the future in terms of creating a single firearms body, then it is logical that DSRR remains as the funding agency. Given the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regulatory role, DSRR should look at the funding amount for the Council, particularly around the employed staff member. The review believes that this role should be a full time position, aligned to the relevant public sector administration officer level, with annual increments.

Overview of Funding A summary of the funding amounts for financial year 2013/14 for each organisation funded under the Sport Service Provider Grant Program is shown in Table 5. Table 5: Sport Service Provider Grant Program funding allocation for financial year 2013/14.

Organisation Details

Sports Service Provider Funding

Other DSRR Funding

Comments Occupy office space at Motorsports house at nil cost

Motorsports NT

$195,000

Office Space

RLSSA (NT)

$131,250

Office Space + Other grant funding

Sports Medicine Australia

$105,000

Nil

Firearms Council

$103,500

TOTAL

$534,750

Office Space

Occupy space at Ethos House at nil cost

Manage Mickett Creek, a NTG facility, and occupy space at the facility

Recommendations 18. The following organisation is considered for funding as an ancillary service to the sport industry, on a triennial agreement with an annual review against the recommended framework. • Sports Medicine NT 19. DSRR work with Sports Medicine NT, as the primary sports medicine provider to sporting clubs, to understand the role that they have in assisting sport to be conducted in safe environments within the relevant OH&S regulations and other requirements. They should be funded to expand into other key areas outside of Darwin/Palmerston and Alice Springs. 20. The following organisations are funded separate to this or other grant programs, with their own set of KPIs, in a similar fashion to the Thoroughbred and Greyhound Racing sectors through the DSRR. • Motorsports NT • NT Firearms Council Inc 21. DSRR works with Motorsports NT to have a full understanding of the financial position and strategic direction of the organisation to assess its ongoing funding level from the DSRR. 22. DSRR works with the Firearms Council NT Inc. to review their needs around funding to effectively fulfill their regulatory needs. 23. Further discussions occur with Royal Life Saving Society Australia (NT) to define where they sit in the funding frameworks of the DSRR. A whole of organisation approach should be taken to funding the services the NT Government wants RLSSA(NT) to deliver. Consideration should also be given to the Life Saving model implemented in Victoria, with the combination of Royal Life Saving Society Australia and Surf Lifesaving.