Sport and recreation grant programs for NSW

This article appears in the November 2009 edition of Sportshorts.

The NSW Government has announced streamlined grants programs for sport and recreation projects and facilities across NSW.

Existing programs have been revamped to better target the projects that most need help and reduce administration.

“Increasing participation in sport and recreation is a powerful preventative health strategy,” said Sport and Recreation Minister Kevin Greene.

“That’s why we’ve overhauled the existing sports grants programs to cut red tape for applicants and encourage innovation amongst sporting organisations.

“The new grants are focused squarely on sport development and athlete support, general participation and the development of quality sporting facilities,” Mr Greene said.

Three new grant programs will be offered:

• Sport and Recreation Participation Program
• Sport and Athlete Development Program
• Sport and Recreation Facility Grant Program.

In addition, the Disability Sport Assistance Program will continue.

A major improvement is the introduction of an online application system for all four grant programs. This will allow people to enter project details on a secure website.

Other benefits of the new grant programs include:

• Streamlined application process
• Reduced administrative burden on applicants
• Reduced turn around times
• Less funding to administration and back of house support.

Sport and Recreation grant programs

At a glance

Key dates

• Opening date: 11 November, 2009
• Closing date: 21 December, 2009

* Note, dates for the Sport and Recreation Facility Grant Program will differ, with exact details to be announced soon.

Sport and Recreation Participation Program

• Who can apply: Councils; incorporated not for profit community organisations
• Focus areas: reducing barriers to participation in sport and recreation
• Level of funding: $500-$10,000

Sport and Athlete Development Program

• Who can apply: State Sporting Organisations; peak industry bodies
• Focus areas: development of athlete and sport; building capacity and sustainability
• Level of funding: $1,000-$15,000

Disability Sport Assistance Program

• Who can apply: incorporated not for profit community organisations; State Sporting Organisations
• Focus areas: programs targeted to people with a disability
• Level of funding: $2,000-$10,000 for local programs; $2,000-$20,000 for statewide programs

Sport and Recreation Facility Grant Program

• Who can apply: Councils; incorporated not for profit community organisations
• Focus areas: new facilities; upgrading existing facilities