Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The Significant Sporting Events Program (SSEP) in Victoria funds national and international sporting events to enhance event quality, community participation, and economic impact. Grants support both operational costs and event development, with funding ranging from $20,000 to $150,000 per event, depending on the grant stream.
Program Overview
The SSEP aims to strengthen Victoria’s sporting sector by supporting events that:
- Expand or develop existing sporting competitions
- Attract new national and international events
- Build sector capability and athlete pathways
- Encourage public engagement in sport
- Drive local economic activity and tourism
- Promote Victoria as a hub for world-class sports
Grant Streams
- Event Assistance Grant
- Covers operational costs of staging events
- Maximum funding: $20,000 per event per year
- Event Development Grant
- Supports event development or expansion aligned with state outcomes
- Maximum funding: $150,000 per event per year
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants and events must meet the following:
- Event delivered in Victoria
- Sport recognised by the Australian Sports Commission
- Nationally or internationally sanctioned by a recognised sporting body
- Event occurs at least six months after application submission
- Offers equal prize money for all genders, where applicable
- Multi-year events or events requiring a bid process are eligible if criteria are met
Application Process
- Applications submitted at least six months prior to the event
- Six funding rounds available each financial year
- Proposals must clearly demonstrate alignment with state outcomes and community benefits
Why It Matters
The program strengthens Victoria’s sporting profile, elevates event quality, and provides opportunities for athletes, organisers, and communities. By fostering high-performance pathways and supporting public engagement, SSEP also drives economic and tourism benefits and enhances Victoria’s reputation for world-class sporting events.
Tips for Applicants
- Demonstrate how the event builds capability and engagement
- Highlight economic and community benefits
- Ensure all sanctions, schedules, and prize equality requirements are met
- Submit applications well ahead of deadlines to meet the six-month lead time
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What types of events are eligible?
National or international sporting events recognised by relevant sporting bodies and delivered in Victoria. - What are the grant amounts?
Event Assistance Grants: up to $20,000; Event Development Grants: up to $150,000. - When must applications be submitted?
At least six months before the event. - Can multi-year or bid-based events apply?
Yes, if they meet eligibility criteria. - Is gender equality in prize money required?
Yes, equal prize money for all genders is required where applicable. - How many funding rounds are there each year?
Six rounds per financial year.
Final Takeaway
The SSEP provides strategic funding to enhance Victoria’s sporting events, supporting athletes, communities, and organisers while promoting economic growth and international recognition. Events that align with program objectives and demonstrate clear benefits are well-positioned for success.
For more information, visit Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions.
