Deadline: 29-Apr-2026
The Northern Territory Recreational Fishing Grants Scheme provides funding to support community-led projects that enhance recreational fishing. Small grants of up to $15,000 are currently available for initiatives that benefit the wider community and promote participation, with projects required to be completed within 12 months and accessible to the public.
Overview
The Northern Territory Recreational Fishing Grants Scheme aims to strengthen and promote recreational fishing across the Territory. Recognising its social and economic value, the programme supports community-led initiatives that contribute to the growth, accessibility, and enjoyment of recreational fishing activities.
Small grant applications are currently open, with larger funding rounds expected later in the year.
Funding Details
- Small grants: Up to $15,000
- Project duration: Maximum 12 months
- Funding supports projects that:
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
- Incorporated bodies that are a Territory Enterprise
- Organisations with no outstanding acquittals from previous recreational fishing grants
Requirements:
- Projects must be publicly accessible; private land without public access is not eligible
- Projects must be completed within 12 months
Who cannot apply:
- Entities operating outside the Northern Territory
- Unincorporated bodies, unless partnered with an incorporated organisation acting as the primary applicant
- For-profit organisations not collaborating with a not-for-profit partner
- Local Government Councils without a not-for-profit partner
- NT Government agencies, including government schools
- Universities
- Projects located on private land with no public access
How to Apply
- Ensure your organisation meets eligibility criteria
- Confirm there are no outstanding acquittals from previous grants
- Develop a project proposal that enhances recreational fishing and benefits the community
- Submit the application within the current small grants round
- Ensure project completion and reporting within 12 months
Why It Matters
- Supports community engagement in recreational fishing
- Promotes social and economic benefits linked to recreational fishing
- Encourages accessible and inclusive fishing projects for all residents
- Strengthens the community-led growth and sustainability of recreational fishing in the Northern Territory
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as an ineligible entity (e.g., unincorporated body or government agency without a partner)
- Proposing projects on private land with no public access
- Submitting applications with outstanding acquittals from previous grants
- Failing to complete the project within 12 months
FAQ
1. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to $15,000 for small grants; larger grant rounds will be announced later.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Incorporated Territory Enterprises with no outstanding acquittals from previous recreational fishing grants.
3. Can projects be on private land?
Only if the land is publicly accessible. Projects on private land without public access are ineligible.
4. Can government schools or universities apply?
No, unless collaborating with a not-for-profit organisation acting as the lead applicant.
5. What is the project duration?
All funded projects must be completed within 12 months.
6. Are unincorporated organisations eligible?
Only if partnered with an incorporated body that acts as the primary applicant.
7. Are for-profit organisations eligible?
Only if they collaborate with a not-for-profit partner.
Conclusion
The Northern Territory Recreational Fishing Grants Scheme provides vital funding to strengthen community participation, accessibility, and enjoyment of recreational fishing. By supporting eligible, incorporated, and community-focused projects, the scheme ensures lasting social and economic benefits across the Territory.
For more information, visit Northern Territory Government.









































