10 March 2026
The SA Greens welcome Labor's pledge to make sports vouchers available to 16–18 year-olds but say they should go further - backing the Greens' plan for a fitness voucher for 18–25 year-olds.
Key facts:
- Under the plan, 18-25 year olds would be eligible to apply for a one-off voucher of up $250 to be used in a 6-month period on fitness activities. This could include gym membership, group fitness classes, personal training or participation in community sports.
- The Greens estimate 96,000 young South Australians would access the voucher at a cost of $6 million a year.
- A similar scheme has been operating in Malta and had a strong community response.
- By encouraging physical activity among younger adults, the scheme encourages healthy lifestyles that would deliver long term savings to the health budget.
- Currently, 7/10 South Australian adults are overweight or obese.
Quotes Attributable to Robert Simms MLC
"Providing these vouchers for 16–18-year-olds is welcome, but the Government should back our plan to roll fitness vouchers out to 18-25 year olds."
“When people begin their adult life, housing and grocery expenses often take priority over club or gym membership. The Greens’ plan would enable people to stay engaged in healthy lifestyles after high school and into their adult life."
“We know that Premier loves his sport. I hope Labor match the Greens’ plan and work with us to make this a reality in the next Parliament.”