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Call for Applications: Significant Sporting Events Program (Australia)

Deadline: 15-Feb-2026

The Significant Sporting Events Program, via the Sporting Event Strategy and Expansion Program (SSEP), offers grants to support national and international sporting events in Victoria. Funding assists with event operations, development, and attraction while promoting participation, athlete pathways, and economic and cultural growth across local communities.

Overview of the Program

The Significant Sporting Events Program is a Victorian Government initiative that helps event organizers enhance the delivery of national and international sporting events in Victoria. The Sporting Event Strategy and Expansion Program (SSEP) supports event growth, strengthens Victoria’s reputation for world-class sporting experiences, and builds capability within the Victorian sporting sector and workforce. The program promotes sport participation, provides pathways for athletes of all abilities, and contributes to Victoria’s thriving sporting culture.

Program Objectives

  • Expand the impact of national and international sporting events.

  • Encourage wider Victorian participation and skill development in sport.

  • Drive economic activity within local communities.

  • Support high-performance athlete development.

  • Promote government-to-government collaboration and sport diplomacy.

  • Foster inclusive participation in both grassroots and elite sporting events.

Funding Details

The SSEP provides two grant streams:

  • Event Assistance Grant: Up to $20,000 per event per year to offset general operational costs.

  • Event Development Grant: Up to $150,000 per event per year to develop or expand existing events or attract new events delivering significant outcomes for Victoria.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Events must be delivered within Victoria.

  • The sport must be recognised by the Australian Sports Commission and listed in the Australian Sports Directory as the National Sporting Organisation for that discipline.

  • Events must be nationally or internationally sanctioned by a recognised sporting body.

  • Applications must align with approved event types.

  • Applications must be submitted at least six months prior to the event.

  • Where prize money is offered, equal amounts must be provided to all genders.

How to Apply

  1. Confirm your event meets eligibility and sanctioning requirements.

  2. Select the appropriate grant stream: Event Assistance or Event Development.

  3. Prepare an application detailing operational needs, expected outcomes, and alignment with SSEP objectives.

  4. Include a clear budget, project timeline, and evidence of sanctioning and recognition by relevant sporting authorities.

  5. Submit the application at least six months prior to the event date.

Why It Matters

The program strengthens Victoria’s sporting community by:

  • Supporting high-quality and well-managed sporting events.

  • Enhancing participation opportunities for athletes of all abilities.

  • Promoting gender equity and inclusivity in sport.

  • Driving economic, social, and cultural benefits within local communities.

  • Building Victoria’s reputation as a destination for world-class sporting events.

Tips and Common Mistakes

  • Ensure your sport and event are recognised and sanctioned by the relevant authority.

  • Submit applications at least six months before the event.

  • Provide clear budgets, measurable outcomes, and alignment with program objectives.

  • Confirm equal prize money distribution for all genders where applicable.

  • Avoid applying for events outside Victoria or lacking recognised sanctioning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Who can apply? Event organisers of nationally or internationally recognised sporting events delivered in Victoria.

  2. What funding streams exist? Event Assistance Grant (up to $20,000) and Event Development Grant (up to $150,000).

  3. What is the application deadline? Applications must be submitted at least six months before the event.

  4. Which sports are eligible? Sports recognised by the Australian Sports Commission and listed in the Australian Sports Directory.

  5. Are prize money requirements specified? Yes, equal amounts must be offered to all genders where prize money is awarded.

  6. Can new events apply? Yes, the Event Development Grant supports new events delivering significant outcomes.

  7. What outcomes are expected? High-quality events, inclusive participation, athlete development, and economic and cultural benefits.

Conclusion

The Significant Sporting Events Program through SSEP provides essential support for Victoria’s sporting sector, enabling high-quality events, fostering athlete pathways, and promoting inclusive community participation. By funding operational costs, expansion, and new initiatives, the program contributes to Victoria’s economic, social, and cultural vibrancy while strengthening the state’s position as a global leader in sporting events.

For more information, visit Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions.