With support from Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Regional Access All Abilities Participation Grants, GippSport developed its first Access All Abilities (AAA) Multi-Sport Program for specialist schools and service providers across South Gippsland and Bass Coast. The program was designed to increase access to inclusive sporting opportunities for people with disability, particularly those who may not otherwise engage in structured sport.
The program was built around three core principles:
Choice – participants could decide how they wanted to engage
Flexibility – sessions were adaptable to different abilities, interests and energy levels
Consistency – regular scheduling helped establish routine and familiarity
Participants were supported to engage at their own pace in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment that prioritised positive experiences with physical activity.
The first half of the program focused on familiar, traditional sports such as soccer, basketball, and cricket to help participants build confidence and feel comfortable early in the program. This approach allowed students to engage with sports they recognised while experiencing them in a modified and inclusive format.
Basketball quickly emerged as the most popular activity. Sessions were structured to support fundamental skill development while offering participants clear options in how they engaged. Access to two courts at South Gippsland SPLASH enabled participants to be grouped according to preference, with some choosing to play small-sided games while others focused on individual skills such as shooting and repetition. This flexible approach ensured meaningful participation for all ability levels and supported positive engagement.
Cricket sessions also proved highly engaging. As weather conditions improved, sessions were able to move outdoors, providing participants with increased space and freedom of movement. The outdoor environment encouraged exploration and enjoyment while maintaining an inclusive and structured session format.
Across the first block of delivery, several positive outcomes were observed:
Strong engagement with choice-based activities
Flexible spaces supported different participation styles
Familiar sports helped build confidence and willingness to try new skills
Consistent scheduling supported regular physical activity and routine
These outcomes highlight the importance of adaptable, participant-led program design when delivering inclusive sport opportunities.
The first half of the program has demonstrated the value of inclusive, flexible and consistent sporting opportunities. By prioritising participant choice within a supportive structure, the program created positive early experiences and a strong foundation for ongoing engagement.
In Term 1, the second half of the program will introduce less traditional sports, expanding participants’ experiences and continuing to build confidence, skills and enjoyment of physical activity.
Remaining program dates
Dates
Tuesdays in February: 3, 10, 17, 24
Tuesdays in March: 3, 10, 17
Time: 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Location: South Gippsland SPLASH, Leongatha
Dates
Thursdays in February: 5, 12, 19, 24
Thursdays in March: 5, 12, 19
Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Location: South Gippsland SPLASH, Leongatha
For more information:
Shiv Wheeler
Email: shiv@gippsport.com.au
Phone: 0474 004 733
