2026 starts with big wins for sporting clubs
Published: 25 February 2026Season 2026 kicks off with a fresh round of grants to energise local clubs and create more opportunities for players, coaches, volunteers and officials to get involved in the sports they love.
There are 544 clubs across Victoria that will share in 672 grants through the Sporting Club Grants Program, with a new round also now open for applications.
The Program provides grants of up to $1,000 for uniforms, equipment; up to $1,500 for resources that improve governance and engagement; up to $5,000 for projects to strengthen volunteering and officiating; up to $5,000 to deliver a new sport or recreation program and up to $750 to support athlete travel.
Mät Foundation received $1,000 towards the purchase of mini goals for their free weekly soccer program for vulnerable youth, families and single-parent households in Melton.
St Kilda Handball Club also received $1,000 for equipment and uniforms to help launch a junior program for boys and girls aged 8–15.
Shepparton South Football Club received $3,800 for training and development of volunteer coaches for the women’s teams, where participation has tripled in three years.
Sang-Rok Wonthaggi Judo Club also received $800 towards first-aid and CPR accreditation to improve safety and preparedness at training and events.
Sunraysia Hockey Association received $5,000 to establish a walking hockey festival and competition, removing barriers for older adults and creating intergenerational recreation opportunities to allow families to participate together.
The Sporting Club Grants Program has injected more than $19.5 million in support to thousands of community sport and recreation clubs across the state over the past decade.
The Program is backed by the Regional Community Sport Development Fund that’s delivering infrastructure upgrades and other programs including the Regional Community Sport Infrastructure Fund to help more regional Victorians get active and be part of their local sporting club.
By providing more opportunities for clubs and organisations to build on their capabilities, this Program goes a long way towards future proofing grassroots sport and recreation and ensuring clubs have the skills they need.
Applications for the new round of the Sporting Club Grants open today and will close on 7 April 2026.
For more information about the program, latest recipients and how to apply visit the Sporting Club Grants Program.