Deadline: 18-Aug-25
The Office of Sport has opened applications for the Local Sport Grant Program to support grassroots sporting clubs across New South Wales. This initiative is designed to help local clubs grow participation, host inclusive events, and improve access and infrastructure in sport and recreation.
The program supports the broader vision of strengthening the sport and active recreation sector across NSW. It aims to drive sector growth, develop accessible and inclusive sporting spaces, and ensure everyone in the community—regardless of age, background, or ability—has opportunities to participate in sport throughout their lives.
Core objectives of the program include increasing ongoing participation in sport, especially for underrepresented groups such as women and girls, culturally diverse communities, First Nations peoples, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. The program also aims to reduce barriers to entry, improve community access, enhance club facilities, and strengthen financial sustainability at the grassroots level.
In 2025, a total of $4.65 million will be distributed to support local sporting clubs and associations. Each of the 93 electorates across NSW will receive $50,000 in funding. Grants for individual projects will range between $2,000 and $20,000. While multiple applications are allowed, each organization can only receive a maximum of $20,000 in total.
Eligible projects include those that improve the quality of sporting experiences, reduce participation barriers, or upgrade and repair sporting facilities. Proposals that contribute to inclusive access and strengthen the club’s ability to serve its community will be prioritized.
However, some projects are not eligible for funding. These include general operational costs like wages, administrative expenses, or subscriptions. Other exclusions include travel, accommodation, catering, prize money, presentation functions, entertainment, medical equipment, and projects focused on fundraising or commercial gain.
To be eligible, applicants must be incorporated, not-for-profit grassroots sport clubs or associations that are primarily focused on organizing sporting activities, delivering regular programs, or developing members’ skills. Clubs affiliated with licensed organizations can apply only if the project benefits the sport directly. Similarly, clubs associated with schools or churches must be incorporated in their own right.
Ineligible applicants include individuals, unincorporated groups, commercial organizations, government departments, educational institutions, state and national sporting bodies, local councils, and organizations with unresolved issues under the National Redress Scheme or Royal Commission findings.
This funding opportunity presents a valuable chance for community sport clubs to expand their impact, become more inclusive, and provide meaningful sporting experiences to people across NSW.
For more information, visit Office of Sport.