THE Victorian Government needs to allow the full resumption of community sport in regional areas given the  COVID-19 numbers are so low and the risk of infection spreading can be controlled.

Member for Mildura Ali Cupper said the government needed to act to allow community sport as a matter of urgency.

“Victorians on the whole have done a terrific job in ensuring the spread of COVID-19 was minimised and it came with a lot of sacrifices,” Ms Cupper said.

“It has become clear now that with low numbers being maintained, especially in rural areas, that the time has come to allow community sport to resume.

“We have seen just today two football netball leagues in north-west Victorian – the Central Murray and Golden Rivers – cancel their seasons as has the Millewa Football League in my electorate.

“These leagues are crucial to the fabric of our community. Not only do they provide economic stimulus through jobs and sponsorship but they are a social outlet for so many people.

“That can’t be discounted, especially coming off the last couple of months of tough restrictions. Our communities need these outlets now more than ever.”

Ms Cupper said with most of the COVID-19 cases confined to Melbourne, the risk of having sport with crowds in regional areas like Mildura was minimal.

“Any risks involved can be mitigated through social distancing and the normal personal hygiene measures,” she said.

Ms Cupper said it was important to acknowledge the importance of all community.

“Sport is so important for people’s health and wellbeing, so allowing people to get back to whatever sport they play or are involved in – provided the proper precautions are taken and adhered to – must be allowed to happen now,” she said.