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Western United to benefit from state government funding
Western United will receive funding from the Victorian government due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
United joins professional sporting teams from other codes including Rugby League and Netball, who will share a $9 million support package from the state government.
The funding has been allocated to ensure the short-term viability of professional clubs and national sporting organisations based in Victoria.
Commenting on the funding, Minister for Sport Martin Pakula said: “Top-level sport has copped a buffeting like all parts of society and it’s important that our clubs and peak bodies are able to get through this time in relatively good shape.”
“Professional sport and elite competition provide entertainment and inspiration and fans getting the all-clear to return to the stands will be a significant part of our economic recovery.”
The Victorian State Government has announced the renewal of the Sporting Club Grants Program for 2025-26, delivering another boost for local players, coaches, and volunteers across the state. The program offers up to $10,000 in funding for eligible non-profit clubs to strengthen participation, upgrade equipment, and enhance community engagement.
Since its inception in 2015, the initiative has invested more than $19.5 million into Victorian sport, empowering clubs to stay active and connected. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence praised the program for driving a “healthier, more connected Victoria,” highlighting its success in supporting grassroots development across all levels.
This year’s round places stronger focus on regional communities, following an additional $60 million investment in the Regional Community Sport Development Fund. The renewed focus ensures rural clubs—often the backbone of local communities—can access the same resources, skills, and opportunities as metropolitan teams.
Partnering with Active Victoria, the initiative aligns with the state’s 2022–26 roadmap, which champions inclusivity and representation across all sporting levels. The roadmap prioritises increased participation for women, queer, and underrepresented groups, reflecting the program’s role in building a fairer, more accessible sporting environment.
Beyond participation, the program also delivers significant economic benefits for regional areas, generating jobs and local investment through grassroots sport. By funding local initiatives, the government aims to create positive ripple effects that extend well beyond the playing field.
Applications for Round One open on October 23, 2025, and close on November 26, 2025. Clubs can apply across five categories: Uniform and Equipment, Volunteers and Officials, Access and Events, Travel, and Governance and Engagement. Round Two opens in early February 2026, closing mid-March.
For Victoria’s sporting communities, the renewed program marks another vital step in sustaining grassroots sport and reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of connection, health, and community pride.
Oakleigh Cannons officially unveiled their new $14.7 million grandstand and facilities at Jack Edwards Reserve after years of planning and development.
It’s an exciting time for the Cannons who have been yearning for this project for over 25 years, when it was just a long-shot concept and a dream.
Club President Stan Papayianneris and Chairman Kon Kavalakis spearheaded the deal and were the masterminds behind eventually securing the mega project that will play a big part in the club’s future of player development.
Steve Dimopoulos, the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, and a member for Oakleigh spoke with great passion about getting this project over the line after many important conversations.
“I feel very emotional because it is a life’s work for a lot of people and it’s for a whole community but this has happened because of the leadership of senior Greek-Australians in Melbourne, it’s their legacy.” Dimopoulos said to club media.
“This is a legacy and it’s an overused word but this is absolutely a legacy and what I mean by that is; it secures the future of hundreds of thousands of kids to play here [Jack Edwards Reserve] for the next 50 years. That is legacy.
“The people with bold ideas, the ones who make it versus the ones who don’t make it, the missing ingredient is persistence and this club, especially Kon Kavalakis, had persistence.
“It wasn’t about them; it was about the kids and yes I did have doubts at one point but it all worked out.”
The grandstand was first used in August for their remaining NPL fixtures including the finals match against Preston Lions which garnered a big crowd. A taste of what is to come in 2026 and beyond.
For the foreseeable future, the new developments at Jack Edwards Reserve will serve well for the growth of the club and Victorian football whilst also playing a big part in the club’s top-tier youth system, with fantastic facilities aiding their development.
Kids on the pitch during the day. Image Credit: Oakleigh Cannons
Oakleigh Cannons Club President Stan Papayianneris was a major player in this project and spoke about its importance for the stature of the club.
“This is a culmination of a lot of work over many years and a big plus for the club, something we’ve dreamed about. This is the fruition of what is a dream and it’s an amazing facility for our children.” he said to club media.
“This stadium has elevated the stature of the club and the clubs ability to provide the infrastructure necessary for the development of our children in an environment that is magnificent, it’s safe and will be here for a few generations.”
The new $14.7 million development represents a defining moment for Oakleigh Cannons, rewarding decades of persistence and community effort.
It stands as a testament to the club’s vision and the vital support of local councils and the Victorian Government in driving football infrastructure forward.
