Deadline: 19-Nov-2025
The Regional All Abilities Participation Grants have been established to support grassroots sport and active recreation clubs, along with community-based not-for-profit organisations, in regional Victoria.
The program focuses on creating ongoing, sustainable, and meaningful opportunities for people with disability to participate in sport and recreation. It recognises the systemic barriers that exist for individuals living in regional and rural areas and aims to break these down, ensuring equitable access to the physical, social, and mental benefits of active participation.
Guided by the Active Victoria 2022–2026 framework, the program reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and community connection. It is designed to connect communities by ensuring that all Victorians have access to high-quality and inclusive activities, build value through the positive contributions of the sport and recreation workforce, and leave a lasting legacy through a strong, resilient, and sustainable sector. The outcomes of this framework include equitable participation, increased workforce capability, and strong governance across the industry.
The program’s objectives centre on removing barriers to participation for people with disability, strengthening the capacity of organisations through inclusive practices and workforce development, and expanding opportunities for individuals to take on active roles both on and off the field. It also encourages alignment with the strategic direction of Active Victoria, helping regional and rural organisations embed inclusivity in their initiatives and workforce practices.
For 2025–26, the program has set clear priorities. It will support projects that are led by, or involve, people with disability in planning and decision-making. It also places importance on initiatives that address intersectionality, particularly those that include underrepresented groups such as women and girls, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and older adults. Applications from organisations located in areas identified as socio-economically disadvantaged will also be prioritised.
Organisations can apply for up to $25,000 in funding through three categories. The first supports equipment and travel costs, including inclusive equipment, assistive technology, adaptive uniforms, and travel assistance for players, officials, and their support staff. The second focuses on building an inclusion workforce by funding specialised staff, creating roles for people with disability, and providing mentoring and retention support. The third category empowers organisations to run ongoing programs or disability-led initiatives, ensuring people with disability have an active role in shaping and delivering meaningful activities.
The outcomes of the program are designed to create long-term impact. This includes increasing participation in community-level sport and recreation, building the capacity of local organisations to deliver inclusive programs, and enhancing opportunities for people with disability to engage in sport and recreation across regional Victoria.
To be eligible, applicants must be not-for-profit, non-government organisations registered as an Incorporated Association, a Company Limited by Guarantee, or an Indigenous Corporation. They must also deliver sport, recreation, or physical activity programs within one of Victoria’s 48 regional or rural council areas. Applications require an ABN or a completed Statement by Supplier form if no ABN is available.
Certain applicants, however, are not eligible. These include individuals, sole traders, unincorporated associations, schools, playgroups, kindergartens, government bodies, and companies not incorporated in Australia. The program ensures that funding is directed to organisations best positioned to deliver inclusive, sustainable, and impactful opportunities for people with disability in regional communities.
For more information, visit Victoria State Government.