Victorian kids encouraged to ‘get a move on’

(Unsplash/Artem Kniaz)

The government is giving young Victorians in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay more opportunities to get active as part of a refreshed campaign promoting physical activity.

This week Education Minister James Merlino announced the launch of the Get Your Move On campaign alongside AFLW star and captain Emma Kearney at the North Melbourne Football Club.

Get Your Move On encourages kids to engage in 15 minutes of physical activity four times a day, through activities they enjoy, like walking their dog, riding to school, or kicking a football with friends.

The campaign is part of the broader $24.2 million Active Schools initiative that aims to ensure all Victorians aged 5 to 18 years old have the skills, confidence and motivation to live a happy and healthy life by boosting their physical movement each day outside of school.

Ninety-six Victorian schools also received $30,000 through the latest round of Active Schools Grants, which will allow them to purchase sports equipment, to upskill physical education teachers and to engage local organisations and clubs to deliver sporting programs.

James Merlino said he wants all young Victorians to find to find something they enjoy doing to get active.

“Just a small amount of extra physical activity is all it takes to boost the social, physical and mental health of young people – in turn boosting educational outcomes.”

Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Sheena Watt said while Victoria is considered the education state, it’s about so much more than just what kids learn in the classroom.

“We’re investing to make sure students are getting the activity they need to keep them healthy and happy.”