Recognition process for state sporting associations

State sporting associations are responsible for developing their sport within Victoria, from community participation through to the high-performance level. They can capably represent all Victorians participating in the sport.

Recognition as a state sporting association by Sport and Recreation Victoria acknowledges an organisation as the pre-eminent governing body for the sport in Victoria.

State sporting association recognition status is limited to one organisation for each sporting type. This enables cohesive relationships between the government and the sports sector and prevents fragmentation of sports.

Guidelines

Recognition criteria

Recognition is assessed against the below criteria:

• Criteria 1: Sport is the organisation’s core business
• Criteria 2: The organisation is the pre-eminent governing body for the sport in Victoria and represents all Victorians.
• Criteria 3: The organisation is the Victorian state-affiliated body of the national sporting organisation recognised by Sport Australia
• Criteria 4: The organisation is non-government, legally constituted and not-for-profit
• Criteria 5: The organisation has been operational for a minimum of 3 years and is financially solvent
• Criteria 6: The organisation can provide evidence demonstrating a commitment to contribute to the Victorian Sport and recreation sector that aligns with Victorian Government policies and outcomes.

Applying for recognition

Applications for recognition will be assessed biannually.

The application periods for 2025 are as follows.

Round 1

• Opens: Monday 17 March 2025
• Closes: Friday 25 April 2025.

Round 2

• Opens: Monday 18 August 2025
• Closes: Friday 26 September 2025.

If your organisations needs more information or has questions about the process for state sporting association recognition, please contact the Manager – Governance and Integrity at sportprograms@sport.vic.gov.au