2026-2027 Sports and Recreation Grant (Australia)

The City of Parramatta Sports & Recreation Grant 2026–2027 supports projects that increase participation in local sport and recreation activities, particularly among communities facing barriers to involvement. Eligible organisations can receive up to $2,500 for approved projects delivered in the Parramatta Local Government Area.

Overview of the Sports & Recreation Grant

The City of Parramatta is inviting applications for the 2026–2027 Sports & Recreation Grant to support initiatives that encourage residents to participate in sport, physical activity, and recreational opportunities.

The grant is part of the City of Parramatta Community Grants Program and aims to create more inclusive opportunities for community members to engage in active lifestyles.

Purpose of the Grant

The programme aims to:

Increase participation in sport and recreation activities.
Remove barriers preventing community involvement.
Support inclusive and accessible sporting opportunities.
Encourage healthier and more connected communities.
Promote participation among underrepresented groups.

Priority Communities

The grant particularly supports projects that encourage participation among:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Disengaged young people.
Newly arrived migrants.
Refugees and humanitarian entrants.
People experiencing homelessness.
Culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
People living with disabilities.
People of diverse genders and/or sexuality, including LGBTI communities.
People aged over 55 years, especially those living alone.
Women and girls.

Supported Activities

Eligible projects should focus on increasing access to sport and recreation opportunities.

Examples may include:

Community sports activities.
Recreation programmes.
Inclusive physical activity initiatives.
Participation programmes for priority groups.
Activities that improve access to local sport opportunities.

Funding Information

Successful applicants may receive:

Up to $2,500 per approved project.

Additional funding conditions include:

Only one application per organisation can receive funding during a financial year.
Grant funds must be used within six months of receiving payment.
Recipients must complete an acquittal report within four weeks after project completion.

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements under the City of Parramatta Community Grants Program.

Eligible organisations should:

Deliver projects that benefit the Parramatta community.
Meet Council grant eligibility requirements.
Provide activities aligned with sport and recreation participation goals.

Project Location Requirements

Projects should be delivered within the Parramatta Local Government Area (LGA) unless they meet other eligibility conditions established by the Council.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through the SmartyGrants application platform.

Applicants should provide:

Project details.
Community benefit information.
Budget information.
Implementation plans.
Required supporting documents.

Assessment Considerations

Applications are expected to be assessed based on:

Alignment with grant objectives.
Ability to increase participation in sport and recreation.
Benefits for priority communities.
Project feasibility.
Community impact.

Tips for Applicants

Applicants can strengthen their proposals by:

Clearly identifying barriers to participation.
Explaining how the project supports inclusion.
Highlighting the communities that will benefit.
Providing realistic plans for delivery and outcomes.
Demonstrating how the activity will encourage ongoing participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much funding is available?

Successful applicants can receive up to $2,500.

Who can benefit from funded projects?

Projects should support increased participation in sport and recreation, especially among communities experiencing barriers to access.

How many applications can an organisation submit?

Only one application from an organisation can be funded in a financial year.

Where must projects take place?

Projects should be delivered within the Parramatta Local Government Area or meet Council’s eligibility requirements.

When must funding be spent?

Funding must be spent within six months of receipt, and an acquittal report must be submitted within four weeks after project completion.

Conclusion

The City of Parramatta Sports & Recreation Grant provides an opportunity for organisations to create inclusive sporting and recreational opportunities that improve community health, participation, and connection. The programme prioritises projects that help diverse and underrepresented groups access meaningful physical activity experiences.