Country finals kickstart with new grants

Thanks to the 2023-24 Country Football and Netball Program, which opened for applications on Saturday 12 August, grants of up to $250,000 are now available to support more sports infrastructure projects across the state.

The program funds works such as court redevelopments, oval lighting upgrades, the creation of better changerooms and construction of new pavilions for local clubs and communities.

The program helps more clubs make important upgrades to facilities to ensure more players, coaches, umpires and supporters of all abilities can get involved in local sport.

Local footy and netball clubs in eligible areas are encouraged to speak to their local councils to apply for program funding.

Previous successful projects include $250,000 for a new netball court and lighting upgrades at the home of the Campbells Creek Magpies Football Netball Club in Mt Alexander Shire, and $230,000 towards the Les Cheesley Oval Lighting upgrade at the home of the Wodonga Bulldogs Junior Football Club.

The Country Football and Netball Program is delivered in partnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria, and Netball Victoria. Since 2005, more than $37.5 million has been invested in more than 560 projects across the state.

For Netball Victoria CEO Andrea Pearman, these grants are an opportunity for clubs to get more people in on the game in a safe, welcoming environment.

'This program continues to support our netball community to build capacity and make our game safer and more inclusive,’ said Andrea.

‘Better facilities mean more participation, and greater opportunities for Victorians to experience everything our sport has to offer.'

According to Ben Kavanaugh, Head of AFL Victoria, the benefits of the program flow beyond the sports field and into the wider community.

‘Sport in our country regions brings communities together, and football clubs are often the heartbeat of towns,’ said Ben.

‘So, having good facilities helps to provide a positive experience for players, umpires, volunteers, families and supporters who all make country football clubs thrive,’ he added.

The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver new and improved community sport infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations.

It’s part of the more than $1.9 billion the Victorian Government has invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.

Applications for the 2023-24 Country Football and Netball Program close on 9 October 2023.

For more information on the program and to apply, visit Country Football and Netball Program.