Almost 1000 grassroots sport projects share in $4.6 million boost

NSW: Close to 1000 NSW sports projects have shared $4.6 million in grants for purchasing equipment, improving facilities and increasing participation opportunities as COVID-19 restrictions slowly ease.

Acting Minister for Sports Geoff Lee said 955 projects undertaken by 799 organisations across NSW have been awarded funding as part of the Local Sport Grants Program.

“We are all looking forward to seeing community sport return to normal when it is safe to do so and this money will provide vital funds to help organisations be ready to resume as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted,” Mr Lee said.

“Some organisations will buy uniforms for kids to relieve financial pressures on families whilst others will increase female participation and leadership in sport.

“Women’s sport has experienced enormous success and growth both on and off the field in recent years and we want that momentum to be revived after the worst of COVID-19 has passed.”

Regional NSW will benefit from more than $2 million in grants for local communities.

“Drought, bushfires and now the COVID-19 pandemic have created significant uncertainty for sport in NSW, particularly in regional areas,” Mr Lee said.

“People in the bush love sport and this money will be a massive boost for regional sporting organisations, which not only help our communities stay active and healthy but also perform a vital role keeping people connected.”

The Local Sport Grants Program awards sporting organisations up to $20,000 for projects which focus on development and participation, access and facility development.