Deadline: 18-Feb-2026
The Game On for Change program is a NSW Government initiative that funds the sporting sector to prevent domestic, family, and sexual violence. It provides grants between $15,000 and $75,000 for initiatives that foster safe, inclusive environments and drive positive behavioral change across all levels of sport.
The Game On for Change program leverages the unique cultural influence of sport to address the primary prevention of domestic, family, and sexual violence (DFSV). Administered by the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport, the initiative empowers sporting organizations to become leaders in social change by embedding respectful and inclusive practices within their communities.
Why It Matters: Sport as a Platform for Change
Sporting environments significantly influence social norms, attitudes, and behaviors. This program recognizes that coaches, players, and officials are key influencers who can model healthy relationships.
-
Primary Prevention: By intervening at the “primary” level, the program aims to stop violence before it starts by addressing its root causes, such as gender inequality and disrespectful attitudes.
-
Broad Influence: Initiatives reach beyond the field to engage spectators, parents, and administrators, creating a “whole-of-club” culture of safety.
-
Evidence Building: The program supports the testing of new methodologies to determine what effectively reduces violence in a sporting context.
Funding Tiers and Financial Support
The program is structured to support both grassroots clubs and larger professional entities.
-
Grant Range: $15,000 to $75,000.
-
Local Impact Tier: Specifically targets small-scale projects working with a single club or local organization.
-
Strategic Tiers: Medium and large grant tiers are available for broader, regional, or state-wide initiatives via the NSW Grant Finder.
Who is Eligible?
A wide range of organizations based in or operating within New South Wales (NSW) can apply:
-
Non-Profits: Incorporated community-based or not-for-profit organizations.
-
Sporting Entities: NSW-based professional sporting organizations and local clubs.
-
Government: Local government authorities and regional joint organizations of councils.
-
First Nations Organizations: Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations.
-
Education & Business: Australian universities with a NSW presence and eligible private enterprises.
Key Project Focus Areas
Successful projects generally fall into one of the following strategic categories:
-
Scaling Proven Initiatives: Expanding evidence-based prevention programs that have already shown success.
-
Behavioral Change: Developing workshops or campaigns that encourage positive attitudinal shifts among players and fans.
-
Capacity Building: Strengthening partnerships between sporting clubs and professional DFSV prevention experts.
-
Inclusion and Diversity: Ensuring initiatives are responsive to diverse lived experiences, including LGBTQIA+, culturally diverse, and disability communities.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
-
Identify the Need: Determine the specific behavioral or cultural gap within your sporting environment.
-
Choose a Tier: Decide if your project is a “Local Impact” project (up to $75k) or requires a larger strategic grant.
-
Form Partnerships: Collaborate with DFSV prevention experts to ensure your project is safe and evidence-based.
-
Visit NSW Grant Finder: Search for “Game On for Change” to access the application portal and current guidelines.
-
Submit Proposal: Outline your objectives, target audience (coaches, staff, etc.), and how you will measure the project’s impact.
Tips and Common Mistakes
-
Lack of Expert Consultation: Prevention work is sensitive; failing to partner with qualified DFSV sector experts is a common reason for application rejection.
-
One-Off Events: Sustained change requires more than a single “awareness round.” Aim for projects that embed long-term practices or policies.
-
Excluding Key Groups: Ensure the project engages administrators and spectators, not just the athletes.
-
Poor Evaluation Planning: The program prioritizes “evidence-based” work. Clearly define how you will track success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the definition of “Primary Prevention” in this program?
Primary prevention refers to initiatives that take place before violence occurs. It focuses on changing the underlying social drivers of violence, such as gender stereotypes and power imbalances.
2. Can a small local football club apply?
Yes. The Local Impact tier is designed exactly for small-scale projects delivered at the club level.
3. Does the funding cover the purchase of sporting equipment?
Generally, no. Funding is intended for activities that support prevention, knowledge building, and behavioral change rather than general sporting infrastructure or equipment.
4. Who administers the Game On for Change program?
The program is managed by the NSW Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport.
5. Are universities eligible?
Yes, provided the university is Australian and has a physical presence and operational footprint in New South Wales.
6. What is the maximum grant amount?
The current grant range for the specified round is between $15,000 and $75,000.
7. Does the project have to focus on gender-based violence?
Yes. The program specifically targets the prevention of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
Conclusion
The Game On for Change program is a critical investment in the safety and integrity of the Australian sporting community. By transforming clubs into hubs of respect and inclusion, the program helps build a future free from violence. Successful applicants will be those who demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practices and inclusive community engagement.
For more information, visit NSW Government.
