Grant recipients include Maarli Nhuungkhus Maarni Dance Group which received $1,000 to purchase new costumes and uniforms.

The Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation has received $750 to help junior BMX champion Jayden Dellar from Ballarat Sebastopol RUSH BMX club take part in the BMX National Championships in November.

CEO of Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Paul Davis said this Aboriginal Sport Participation grant for Jayden Dellar provides valuable assistance towards him pursuing his sporting dreams to compete at a national level.

“The grant has made a huge difference and we are extremely appreciative of this support,” he said.

Echuca Football and Netball Club received $1,000 to supply uniforms to Aboriginal players.

From Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist and NBA star Patty Mills to Olympic 400m champion Cathy Freeman, Aboriginal athletes have made a huge impact in the sporting arena and beyond.

The program is about supporting Aboriginal communities to take part in sport and active recreation and enjoy the social and health benefits that participation offers.

Since the start of the program in 2020, the Victorian Government has provided 128 grants totalling more than $138,000 to Aboriginal community organisations, clubs and individuals across the state.

Up to $1,500 is available for teams to participate in statewide or national carnivals, up to $1,000 for team uniforms and club sporting equipment and $750 for travel and accommodation expenses.

The next round of funding will open soon. For more information about the program and grant recipients, visit Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program.