The goal of the Local Sport Grants Program is to offer assistance to community-level sports clubs, with the objective of increasing engagement, organizing events, enhancing accessibility, and modernising sports and recreational amenities.
In this latest funding round, a substantial sum of $4.65 million was allocated, providing ample opportunities for local communities to enhance their sporting infrastructure. Each electorate was granted access to $50,000, allowing them to invest in projects that foster active lifestyles and community engagement.
Eligible projects will receive grants of up to $20,000, enabling clubs and organisations to undertake meaningful initiatives aimed at enriching the sporting landscape and promoting physical well-being across the region.
The influence of this initiative on football within NSW is substantial, with over $669,000 directly allocated to the sport. This funding encompasses participation initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and various other aspects, benefiting communities across both urban and rural areas.
Several Football NSW associations have experienced significant benefits from the fund, receiving over $550,000 in allocations. Particularly noteworthy are the Southern Districts Soccer Football Association (SDSFA), Granville District Soccer Football Association (GDSFA), and Football Canterbury, which emerge as primary recipients of support.
SDSFA clubs successfully obtained approval for eight grants, totalling more than $76,000. These grants are directed towards lowering the financial obstacles to football participation and improving the training environment by investing in specialised equipment, coaching courses, and apparel.
The oldest football association in NSW, GDSFA received over $68,000 across four projects. Parramatta Eagles FC, Granville Waratah Soccer FC and Regents Park Saints FC all received the maximum amount of $20,000 ranging from equipment to female programs to help cater for the spike in female football this year post the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Female football is experiencing remarkable growth following the World Cup, with a 17% increase in female player participation recorded year to date.
Manager of Government Relations, Funding and Infrastructure at Football NSW, Daniel Ristic underscored the importance of this funding.
“The Local Sport Grant Program offers football clubs considerable flexibility, enabling them to seek funding for a wide range of needs, including programs, essential equipment, and minor infrastructure projects,” he said via press release.
“We thank the government once again for this ongoing funding, this program truly does a make a difference to local grassroots clubs across NSW each and every year.”
Football Canterbury clubs were also granted a significant sum exceeding $48,000, indicating the region’s strong participation levels and dedication to accommodating diverse members. Most approved grant proposals centre around program-based endeavours, aiming to offer inclusive avenues to football for people of all ages and skill levels.
Football Canterbury is witnessing a surge in registrations, experiencing a 10% rise in participation compared to the 2023 season, with over 19,400 individuals enrolled for the 2024 season.
