Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has welcomed the opening of two major sports funding programs, urging local sporting clubs to speak to their councils to ensure their projects are considered.

“The Local Sports Infrastructure Fund and the Country Football and Netball Program provide fantastic opportunities for our community clubs to improve facilities, increase participation, and enhance safety,” Ms Cleeland said.

The Local Sports Infrastructure Fund is open until 2 December 2025, offering grants across three streams:

Community facilities – up to $500,000

Planning – up to $40,000

Community sports lighting – up to $250,000

The Country Football and Netball program is open until 26 February 2026, and eligible projects include developing or redeveloping change rooms, pavilions, ovals, and courts to improve capacity, inclusion, and safety.

Projects may also include upgrades to lighting, energy efficiency improvements, and multi-use facilities.

“Only councils can apply for these grants, so it is vital that sporting clubs work closely with their local council to have their needs considered,” Ms Cleeland said.

“These grants can make a real difference for community sport, supporting projects that will benefit clubs and players for years to come.”

Previous projects funded under similar programs have included upgrades to sporting pavilions, installation of LED lighting, and new court developments that have improved access and participation for players of all ages.

For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit https://sport.vic.gov.au/funding/local-sports-infrastructure-fund or https://sport.vic.gov.au/funding/country-football-and-netball-program