Variety’s We Join Community Grant aids schools and organisations

Variety the children’s charity NSW/ACT is dedicated to fostering inclusivity for all Australian children. They invite schools and not-for-profit organisations to apply for grants of up to $10,000. These grants can be used to purchase equipment that enhances access and inclusivity within the community for children aged 0-18 years.

The program specifically supports children facing financial disadvantage, geographic isolation, disability, or chronic illness, aiming to improve their opportunities and quality of life.

The eligibility is as follows:

  • The school or non-profit organization must be located and active in NSW or ACT.
  • School or NFP organisation must directly service children aged 0-18 years in one or more of the following areas:
  1. Children with disabilities
  2. Children experiencing financial hardship
  3. Children with chronic illnesses
  4. Children residing in remote or rural areas
  • Previous recipients cannot apply for another community grant until two years have passed from the date on their outcome letter.
  • Applicants who were not successful may be eligible to reapply for a community grant 12 months following the date specified in their outcome letter.

Applicants may request one or more items as part of their grant application. These items must directly benefit children according to the eligibility criteria outlined above. The examples provided are for reference only, we advise contacting the Kids Support team before submitting an application to confirm that the requests meet the criteria for consideration.

  • Supplies, e.g. bubblers, garden supplies, library supplies, musical instruments.
  • Equipment, e.g. inclusive play equipment, adaptive toys, inclusive sporting equipment, beach wheelchairs.
  • Technology: e.g. Coding supplies, 3D printers, smart boards.
  • Experiences, e.g. transport to school camp or group activity that would otherwise be unavailable.

The application must include a quote from your chosen supplier for the requested item(s). This quote should be no more than 3 months old at the time of submission and must remain valid throughout the assessment process. Note that the assessment may take up to 6 weeks before you receive a decision from Variety.

Schools must provide their latest RAM funding total, while other organisations need to submit a copy of their most recent Annual Financial Statements. Applicants must also explain why they are seeking support from Variety NSW/ACT and, if applicable, disclose any additional sources of funding.

Outcome letters are typically emailed to applicants about 4-6 weeks after their initial submission.

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Football SA commits to quality with TigerTurf partnership

An industry leader in synthetic pitches and sports surface technology, TigerTurf will now team up with Football SA as a Preferred Supplier of Synthetic Pitches.

Supporting growth on and off the pitch

A key issue facing many clubs and districts across Australia’s football landscape is facility access.

Sharing venues and pitches with other winter sports restricts not just playing time, but pitch quality when access becomes available.

But with TigerTurf’s expertise, built over the course of 40 years in the industry, footballers in South Australia will now see the installation of quality and durable synthetic pitches designed to support their footballing journey.

“Football continues to experience strong and sustained growth across South Australia, and with that growth comes an increasing need for high-quality, sustainable and accessible facilities,” explained Football SA Chief Executive Officer, Michael Carter.

“Our role at Football SA is to support clubs not only on the field, but also in ensuring they have the infrastructure required to grow their communities and deliver football for generations to come.”

Furthermore, TigerTurf Australia General Manager, Travis Knight, also commented on the organisation’s mission to players and people across communities in South Australia.

“At TigerTurf, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy safe, reliable and high-quality spaces to play,” Knight said via press release.

“This partnership allows us to work alongside Football SA to create inclusive facilities that encourage more people to participate, stay active and feel part of the football community.”

 

Responding to participation

Football continues to be Australia’s most participated team sport. According to Football Australia, roughly 1.93 million people enjoy the beautiful game within clubs, schools, social settings and futsal.

In South Australia alone, 2024 saw total participation reach 126,934, emphasising the need for widespread facility access.

Thus, TigerTurf’s role in the industry goes far beyond pitch installation. Through its partnership with South Australia, they are ensuring current players can continue to develop as players, while also building strong foundations for future generations.

All-year-round access, reductions in weather cancellations, and long-term planning opportunities mean that synthetic pitches are a valuable investment.

And, partnered with the industry knowledge of TigerTurf, Football SA can expect this investment to return ten-fold in the form of participation, growth and community spirit.

Football NSW celebrates volunteers across football community

As National Volunteer Week gets underway from 18-24 May, Football NSW are championing the people who dedicate their time and efforts to supporting all across the football landscape.

Essential to sports

According to the Federal Government’s Australian Sports Commission, there are roughly 2.9 million Australians per year who give their free time and energy to sports across the country.

They are critical to the continued growth and culture of sports nationwide, especially within the football community.

Which is why, during National Volunteer Week, it is so important to recognise the contributions made by the people who uphold the game we love week-in week-out.

Football NSW CEO, John Tsatsimas, commended volunteers in New South Wales and highlighted the vital role they play in the sport across the state.

“Football in New South Wales simply does not exist without volunteers,” Tstatsimas stated via press release.

“They are the heartbeat of our clubs and competitions, and their contribution is felt in every match played across the state each weekend.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the time, passion and dedication they bring to the game.”

 

Supporting operations behind-the-scenes

Volunteers, despite their fundamental role in the grassroots game, often go unseen in the chaos and excitement of a matchday.

But, as Football NSW emphasises, their responsibilities and contributions are wide-ranging leading up to fixtures to ensure players and supporters alike experience the best of grassroots football.

“Week in, week out, these dedicated individuals ensure football continues to thrive across the state, coaching junior teams, refereeing matches, managing squads, running canteens, preparing fields, coordinating fixtures and supporting clubs in countless behind-the-scenes roles,” Football NSW said via press release.

So this week serves as an important period to recognise the backbone of local football communities not only in New South Wales, but all states across the nation.

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