AusLeisure

Women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) backgrounds will now be able to participate in sport more easily, with the release of an Australian-first multicultural uniform guide.

Seven Western Australian sports with high numbers of CaLD participants have endorsed a series of pictorial posters and information sheets showing and describing uniform options for women and girls playing AFL, football, basketball, gymnastics, volleyball, cricket and netball.

The options feature guidelines around leggings, long-sleeved tops and head coverings.

The Multicultural female uniform guidelines is an opportunity to provide young CaLD women with the confidence to move from school-based sport to club or competition level.

It also gives local sporting clubs a guide to help women play sport safely and in an inclusive and culturally appropriate way.

Each Western Australian Sporting Association has endorsed their guide as appropriate and fitting with their codes and regulations.

Inspired by the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia's Female Multicultural Swimwear Guide from 2016, it is hoped the Australian-first project will provide inspiration for other States and Territories to develop similar guides to encourage greater participation in sport.

The Western Australian Government partnered with Communicare Inc. to create the guides in consultation with CaLD participants, community leaders, and State Sporting Associations including the West Australian Football Commission, Basketball WA, WACA, Gymnastics WA, Netball WA, Football West, and Volleyball Western Australia.

Commenting on the initiative, Western Australian Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray stated “these uniform guides mean women and girls who would otherwise be unable to play sport because of cultural or religious clothing requirements can now join a team and be involved the same as anyone else.

"These options will allow more women to participate safely and join local clubs, which are not only great for being active but also for growing cohesive, integrated communities.

"We want to give new Australians every confidence that they can join in and take part in sport - that most quintessential Aussie pastime.

"Western Australia is leading the country with this innovative, inclusive concept - which will ultimately provide more opportunities for sport to bring people together."

Image: Minister Mick Murray with athletes showcasing the multicultural uniform. 

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