Last summer's record participation numbers have encouraged Cricket Australia (CA) to invest $4 million into women's cricket.

The governing body extended its commitment to developing the sport amongst young females this morning, launching a Growing Cricket for Girls fund.

Better coaching facilities, support for local associations and keeping girls playing against others their own age were all factors identified as key to creating sustainable 11-18-year-old girl's grassroots competitions.

$1 million a year will be boosted into local associations, clubs and secondary schools across the country during a four-year period.

Of that, $50,000 will be put aside to employ full-time female participation specialists, tasked with creating jobs and establishing alternative career pathways for women in cricket.

Clubs and secondary schools will be able to apply for grants of $2,000 per year, whilst some associations may receive up to $10,000 over two years.

Southern Stars wicket-keeper Alyssa Healy was excited to be part of the announcement at the MCG.

"I know from my own experience, coming through community cricket that dedicated competitions for girls to play against other girls of the same age will have a huge impact," she said.

Last season was widely considered a watershed moment for the female game and CA is continuing to live up to its responsibility, leading the charge for professional pay in women's sport.

The Southern Stars' ongoing achievements coupled with the success of the inaugural Women's Big Bash recently saw a $1.87 million increase in their payment pool.

As a result, Australia's cricketers are now the highest paid female teams-sport athletes in the country.

The highest earners, some on contracts upwards of $70,000 a year, are even able to class their craft as a full-time occupation.

CA chief executive James Sutherland said he was delighted exposure had lead to a flurry in popularity amongst young girls.

"Whilst cricket has had a national female competition for 70 years, we are committed to further investment to grow the female game," he said.

"Our female cricketers are wonderful role models and we are delighted to see their increasing exposure inspiring more and more girls to play."