Motorsport Australia has secured $200,000 from the Victorian Government to help improve facilities across the state.

The initiative will see the sport’s overarching body develop an Infrastructure and Participation Strategy, with improving access to the sport at all levels the goal.

The project will involve determining the value of motorsport to the Victorian economy, what infrastructure improvements are needed, how participation can be increased, and the completion of an audit of all facilities across the state.

A key pillar regarding participation growth will be diversity, including encouraging female involvement.

The strategy will also include the creation of a 10- to 20-year plan.

“The development of this Infrastructure and Participation Strategy for Victoria is something that will lead to significant improvements for our clubs and licence holders and all those involved in the sport,” said Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca.

“As government-recognised sanctioning bodies, we know we are in a unique position where we can work closely with Sport Recreation Victoria to provide great benefits for the clubs and participants who love motorsport and simply can’t get enough of it.

“We thank the Victorian Government for their support of this project which will allow us to identify opportunities for the sport and provide new opportunities for both new and existing participants to get involved in the sport.

“Across Australia, it is well known that motorsport needs more venues and improved facilities to allow more people to experience the thrill of motorsport.

“The support of the Victorian Government is a great show of faith in the future of all forms of motorsport.”

Added Victorian Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence, “We’re backing motor sport across Victoria for the benefit of participants now and in the future.

“The Government allocated $7.4 million to the Racing into a new era for Motor Sport initiative – this study is a crucial part of that investment.

“This is about setting a strategy to deliver the facilities that clubs and associations as well as racers, crew and fans need.”