Get ahead with the Significant Sporting Events Program

Significant Sporting Events Program

The Victorian Government’s Significant Sporting Events Program has been helping sporting, community and events organisations for the whole financial year.

Now into its fifth round, the program offers funding for football clubs to host and run events, based around the operational costs it takes to get these off the ground.

In its entirety, the following organisations are eligible for funding:

  • National sporting organisations
  • State sporting associations
  • Regional sports assemblies
  • Local government authorities
  • Sport conference organisers
  • Local sporting clubs and associations
  • Private event organisations
  • Not for profit organisations
  • Venues.

Applicants are required to submit their applications at least six months prior to an event, so now is the perfect time for National Premier League or grassroots clubs to assess their end of season plans or celebration – such as an awards night – and make the most of this funding opportunity.

It is encouraged to call the Events unit of Sport and Recreation Victoria prior to submitting an application on (03) 9623 1429.

For full details and to apply, click here.

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Bank of Sydney Continues its Collaboration with Bentleigh Greens

Bank of Sydney’s ongoing investment in community-driven initiatives continues to make a measurable difference across Australia.

As an organisation that prioritises people over transactions, the bank has built a strong reputation for supporting grassroots sport, local schools, charities and cultural groups. Its focus on strengthening neighbourhoods and fostering inclusion aligns directly with the ethos of Bentleigh Greens. This shared vision makes the partnership both natural and highly valued.

The renewed sponsorship will allow Bentleigh Greens to expand programs that support young players and families. The club will invest further in junior development pathways, facility upgrades and new opportunities for children from all backgrounds to play and grow at Kingston Heath, with participation continuing to rise each year.

With Bank of Sydney’s backing, the club can keep delivering accessible, high-quality football experiences for the entire community.

Supporting the Future of Grassroots Football

Crucially, this support has direct implications for the long-term health of grassroots soccer in Australia. Community clubs like Bentleigh Greens sit at the base of the nation’s football pyramid. They nurture the talent, passion and skills that eventually reach elite levels. Strong sponsorship helps these clubs operate confidently and sustainably.

Partnerships like this also help level the playing field for families who may struggle to participate. More funding lowers barriers to entry and increases scholarship opportunities. It also strengthens support for young players from newly arrived or financially disadvantaged backgrounds. In a multicultural region like Melbourne’s south-east, this impact is significant. It ensures football stays a unifying space where every child can belong.

For the sport more broadly, committed sponsors act as catalysts. They help clubs plan for the future, develop stronger pathways and create environments that keep players engaged well into their teens. By backing grassroots programs today, partners like Bank of Sydney help build the talent pipeline that will drive the national game forward in the next decade.

Bentleigh Greens look forward to working closely with Bank of Sydney throughout the 2026 season. Together, they will continue strengthening the foundations of local football and enriching the community that supports it.

Bayswater City out as 2025 Australian Championship Finals kick off

Bayswater City has just been knocked out of the Australian Championship after a disheartening 4-1 loss to Group D winners Wests APIA in Sydney.

The loss leaves Bayswater City third in the group, behind MetroStars on goal difference, ending their campaign in the inaugural season of the national second-tier competition.

Sunday’s game demanded Baysie secure at least a point to advance into the finals. Following MetroStars’ 2-0 win over Sydney United 58 earlier in the day, Bayswater needed to claim second place in their group. Missing key players Paddy Loughrey, Chris Jackson, and Oli La Galia, Bayswater faced an uphill battle and fell behind 2-0 by halftime.

Second Half Struggles

Bayswater’s challenges deepened when Sean McManus was sent off early in the second half. Aidan Edwards briefly revived hopes with a superb goal from the edge of the box. As Bayswater pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Wests APIA sealed the result through Oscar Gonzalez and Domenic Costanzo, cementing a 4-1 lead. Head coach Matt Sparrow expressed disappointment but praised his squad’s resilience across the tournament. Bayswater recorded three wins and a draw from six matches against elite opposition.

Looking Ahead

Although the season’s conclusion is disappointing, their performance and debut in the inaugural season of the second-tier national competition remains a promising sign for the club’s future. For fans and the club alike, attention now shifts to the remainder of the tournament for the other teams, as well as offseason planning and preparations for next season.

The elimination of Bayswater this season marks the start of the first-ever Australian Championship Quarter-Finals. Moving ahead are the top two teams from each group, kicking off with Wests APIA and the Marconi Stallions. The quarter-finals introduce a knockout stage where eight teams will compete for semi-final spots and the national title. Fans can expect high-stakes action while clubs like Bayswater look ahead to rebuilding. The finals will be streamed live on SBS on Demand and Football Australia’s YouTube.

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