The next round of the Country Football and Netball Program is now open with grants of up to $200,000 available to deliver projects such as redeveloping and building new ovals and netball courts, installing sports lighting, and building new and redeveloped pavilions.

This round will again focus on supporting communities that have been affected by a natural disaster and those that are experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, strong population growth or other economic challenges.

The program is a partnership with Netball Victoria, the AFL, and AFL Victoria and was established in 2005 to help netball and football clubs across the state to meet growing demand and welcome even more members. So far the program has delivered more than $30 million to more than 500 projects.

Head of AFL Victoria Brad Scott said grant programs like this play an important role in helping communities benefit from new and upgraded facilities, which helps local sporting clubs thrive.

Netball Victoria Chief Executive Rosie King said the continued legacy of the Country Football and Netball Program to deliver new and upgraded facilities across regional Victoria and the urban fringe is a beacon in challenging times.

There are 13 new projects that will also share in more than $1.7 million in funding from the program.

Successful projects include grants of $135,000 to Greater Bendigo City Council to install LED lighting at Barrack Reserve in Heathcote, $150,000 to Cardinia Shire Council to reconstruct two netball courts at the home of Pakenham Lions Netball Club, and $150,000 to Indigo Shire Council to upgrade LED lighting at Yackandandah Football Netball Club.

Applications for the next round of the program close on 1 December 2021 and for more information or to apply online, visit Country Football and Netball Program