Frequently asked questions
General
How do I prepare and submit an application?
Applying for a grant is a simple process using the SmartyGrants platform. All current, open grants that are available via the Office of Sport’s SmartyGrants platform.
Before you apply, please read the Program Guidelines and related materials to make sure you understand all the relevant requirements.
When do applications need to be lodged by?
Applications must be lodged by 1pm, Friday 14 September 2026.
Can my club submit more than one application for different projects?
An applicant may make up to 2 applications; however, the maximum amount of funding that can be awarded to any one organisation is $100,000.
If an applicant submits more than one application, they will be required to prioritise their projects, which may be considered when determining the allocation of funding.
When will successful projects need to be delivered by?
Successful projects must be completed by December 2027.
Will late applications be accepted?
Late applications can only be made where an applicant has started an application in SmartyGrants prior to the closing date/time.
If for any reason you are not able to lodge your application on time, you must contact the Office of Sport at the earliest possible time after the closing date/time.
A late application will only be considered where its acceptance would not compromise the integrity and competitiveness of the process. The final determination on whether a late application will be accepted will be made by the Grant Assessment Panel supported by advice from an independent probity advisor.
Will late documentation be accepted?
If any document is not available prior to the closing date/time and you would like to submit this for consideration you must contact grants@sport.nsw.gov.au Any decision in relation to the acceptance of late supporting documentation will be at the absolute discretion of the Office of Sport.
Late supporting documentation will only be accepted for applications already submitted in SmartyGrants before the closing date and time and will only be considered where its acceptance would not compromise the integrity and competitiveness of the process.
The final determination on whether a late supporting documentation request will be
accepted will be made by the Grant Assessment Panel supported by advice from an independent probity advisor.
What assistance can the Office of Sport staff provide?
Office of Sport staff are available to provide information to potential applicants on interpretation of these Guidelines including types of projects eligible for funding. They can also provide advice relating to the online application process.
Can the Office of Sport review my draft application?
No. The Office of Sport personnel cannot review or provide feedback on any grant applications.
Financial and co-contribution questions
Do I need to have an ABN?
No. Applicants that do not have an ABN must provide a signed ATO Statement by Supplier form that can be downloaded from the Australian Tax Office website.
Do we include GST in the budget?
- Organisations registered for GST: exclude GST from the amount of funding requested in your project budget. GST will be paid to your organisation if successful.
- Organisations not registered for GST: include GST in the costs for your project budget. Please ensure that the quotes you receive are inclusive of GST that will be charged by trades or suppliers.
You can determine if your organisation is registered for GST by looking at your ABN details. If you do not have an ABN, you are not registered for GST.
How do I know if my organisation is incorporated?
Your organisation’s treasurer should have a certificate of incorporation, or you can search for your incorporated status with:
How much funding can my club apply for?
The NSW Government has allocated up to $500,000 for the Run My Way Grant Program 2026/2027. The grant amount requested by an applicant must be a minimum of $5,000 and cannot exceed $100,000.
Does my club need to contribute financially to the project?
A financial contribution is not mandatory; however, applicants may financially contribute to the project.
Organisations who choose to provide a financial co-contribution towards their project may be viewed more favourably during the merit assessment process.
Do supplier discounts count as a co-contribution?
Value of in-kind contributions cannot be calculated toward the financial co-contribution.
Can a financial co-contribution be a different grant from another Government agency?
Grant funding from Federal Government or Council are permitted as a financial co-contribution. Applicants should ensure the contributions to the project are not greater than the Total Project cost and the scope items or deliverables within the project can be aligned to the relevant funding source.
Assessment criteria and announcement questions
What criteria apply to the assessment of applications?
Eligible applications will be assessed against the Program’s objectives and assessment criteria in the Program Guidelines.
How do I demonstrate the need for the project?
To demonstrate project need, you may consider the following:
- Photos of existing condition to show level of dilapidation or inadequacy
- Surveys taken from community groups, club members, participants etc. that highlight the need
- Letters of support from community groups or expected users to support the need
- Any other related evidence that supports the need.
What is universal design?
Universal Design is about creating an inclusive society. It helps everyone navigate their environment easily and makes them feel that they belong in that place.
That means Universal Design can be applied to anything and everything that is designed, programmed, or participated in throughout our everyday lives and environments.
What is intersectionality Lens?
Applying an intersectional lens recognises that some women and girls are affected by more than one form of discrimination and disadvantage, and that these groups may require targeted support to address the barriers and disadvantage they face.
Targeted or under-represented groups include: women with disability, Aboriginal women and girls, women and girls from cultural and diverse backgrounds, women and girls in rural and regional communities, LGBTQI+ women and girls.
Will all applications receive funding?
No. The application process is competitive. It is possible the program will be oversubscribed. Applications that score highest on the Program’s merit assessment criteria will be funded. Generally, these applications best meet the objectives of the program, can demonstrate value for money and low risk associated with the project’s deliverability. They do this by including all mandatory or highly desired evidence and as much of the desired evidence as they can with the application.
How will I know if my club is successful?
All applicants will be advised of outcomes in writing from November 2026 onwards.
What if my application is unsuccessful?
If the outcome of your application is unsuccessful, general feedback for unsuccessful applicants will be provided at the time of notification. You can request additional feedback by emailing the Office of Sport at grants@sport.nsw.gov.au
Requirement of funded projects
What are the requirements for successful Applicants?
Please refer to section 5 of the Program Guidelines for an overview of these requirements.
How do I update my contact details?
If you have been successful in receiving a grant from the Office of Sport and need to change the contact details, please send your updated details to grants@sport.nsw.gov.au and identify the grant program and your grant number and we will make the amendments for you.
How do successful applicants acknowledge the funding when projects are underway?
All successful applicants will receive detailed information about how they must acknowledge NSW Government funding for the project. Projects funded will typically require a statement of funding acknowledgment in the applicant’s annual reports and media releases; and a statement and the NSW Government logo included on temporary and permanent building signage. Successful applicants will receive full guidelines, logos and signage template files.
Further details about acknowledgment of NSW Government funding projects can be found here.
Will the NSW Government be involved in any media for the project?
The NSW Government reserves the right to be involved in media opportunities and speaking engagements relating to the funded project. Funding recipients must ensure that any media opportunities, speaking engagements and signage relating to the Program or project are discussed with, and approved in advance by, Office of Sport.
What is the process if we have a problem with delivery once the project starts and/or we need to request a variation to our funding agreement?
The Office of Sport acknowledges that things may occur that will impact grant recipients and projects at any time. Any variation requested by a successful applicant to a project that constitutes a change to the original application will require a revised assessment of the application to determine whether the project should still be funded in accordance with the program guidelines.
Any variation to the project as detailed in the application form must be agreed to in writing by the Office of Sport and may require Minister approval. In these circumstances, the grant recipients should request a variation via SmartyGrants. Requests for variations to the terms and conditions or changes to the project will only be considered in limited circumstances.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that their application provides accurate cost and timelines to reduce the need for variations.
What is the process for acquittal of funds?
The acquittal requirements are outlined in the section 5.5 of the Program Guidelines.
If the project is subject to fraud, corruption or negligence, what should I do?
If you are provided a grant, it is your responsibility to put in place adequate controls to prevent fraud and corruption and avoid negligence. This requirement is stipulated in the funding agreement terms and conditions.
Fraud is defined by the Independent Commission Against Corruption as “dishonestly obtaining a benefit, or causing a loss, by deception or other means”, and corruption as “deliberate or intentional wrongdoing, not negligence or a mistake”. Grant recipients may experience fraud, corruption or negligence when dealing with contractors in the project, or within their own organisation or its governance. In general, negligence can be defined as the failure to take proper care over or for something.
Appropriate management of procurement processes, the management of contracts and contractors, the establishment of appropriate project management practices (including governance and oversight), and the declaration and management of conflicts of interest are common controls used to prevent or control such incidents. The Office of Sport does not cover the loss of project funding due to fraud, corruption or negligence on behalf of the grant recipient which may also result in the termination of a funding agreement for a grant.
If you experience fraud, corruption or negligence, you should notify the Office of Sport. The Office of Sport can help your organisation work any variations required, except additional funding, to manage the impact on the project.
Fraud and corruption should always be reported to the police. More information about reporting fraud and corruption can be found at:
Program details
What is the assessment process for applications?
Applications will be assessed in the order they are received. Applications will be assessed until the funding allocation has been exhausted or the closing date and time occurs. Due to the high demand on this program, it is expected that the funding will be exhausted prior to the closing date. The Office of Sport reserves the right to amend any of these dates at its absolute discretion.
What is the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program?
The NSW Government is providing up to $500,000 in grants to eligible sporting clubs and facility owners through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program in 2026/27, with grants up to $3,000 available.
The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program is aimed at improving availability and access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in community sporting and active recreational facilities, for use in emergencies involving cardiac arrest.
When do applications open and close?
Applications open on 7 August 2026, and will close when funding allocation is exhausted, or by 1pm on 7 October 2026, whichever is earlier.
How much money is available per grant?
The grant amount will fund the cost of an approved Automated External Defibrillator (AED) package up to $3,000.
There is no mandatory financial contribution. However, where the cost of the selected package exceeds $3,000 the organisation must fund the additional cost.
Applicants can request a grant for one AED package and are limited to one application per financial year.
Applicants who have received funding under previous rounds of the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program are eligible to apply but will only be funded if the program allocation has not been fully exhausted by the closing date.
Do we need to contribute funding to the project?
The grant will cover the cost of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) package up to a maximum of $3,000. Any additional expenditure is the responsibility of the applicant.
Should my grant include GST?
No. Medical aids including defibrillators are GST free. The package prices quoted are GST exclusive and this is the amount that will be awarded as a grant if you are successful.
Will all applications receive funding?
No. An assessment will be conducted as to the eligibility of the applicant in each case. Applications will be assessed in the order in which they are received.
Can organisations make a joint application?
Eligible applicants that share facilities with other user groups are encouraged to collaborate on planning for medical emergencies including sharing resources and locating defibrillators to maximise community access. One organisation needs to be the applicant organisation but list the other organisations who will have access to the device at the named facility. The details of the responsibilities under the arrangement should be negotiated between the organisations concerned.
What do I need to complete my application?
Applicants will need to select an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) provider and an AED package from the approved list.
Applicants should determine which of the approved AED Providers and AED Packages will best meet their needs. All sections of the application need to be completed. If you fail to complete a mandatory field, you will be prompted to do so.
How do I prepare and submit an application?
Applying for the grant is a simple process using the SmartyGrants platform.
The application can be found here.
Before you apply, please read the Program Guidelines and related materials to make sure you understand all the relevant requirements.
What if my application is unsuccessful?
Your application will be unsuccessful if you are ineligible to apply or if the funds from the current round have been exhausted before you submitted your application. If your application does not meet the eligibility criteria you will be notified that your application was ineligible.
What are the next steps if my application is successful?
Successful applicants will need to enter into a contract with their chosen service provider to purchase the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) package. A copy of the contract must be provided to the Office of Sport at acquittal.
Grants must be claimed within two weeks of being notified your grant application was successful.
The project completion and financial acquittal is due 30 days after the stated project end date in the application form.
All projects should be completed by August 2027.
I submitted an Expression of Interest after the previous Round, do I get prioritised?
No. The purpose of the Expression of Interest form was to receive direct notification when the 2026/27 round opened. Applicants who submitted an Expression of Interest have been informed of the launch for the 2026/27 round.
Eligibility
How have the eligibility criteria changed for the 2026/27 round of the Program?
In 2026/27 the NSW Government will continue to support organisations located, or have a majority of members, in, or servicing, the most disadvantaged areas of NSW. However, we have listened to feedback from the community and recognise that postcode borders do not determine the financial status of a club - so we are providing for clubs who are not eligible based on where they are located but who are experiencing financial hardship to also apply.
Why is SEIFA in the criteria?
The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) are a recognised and accepted source of social information that ranks areas according to their relative socio-economic advantage and disadvantage using Census data.
If I was successful in receiving funding through a previous round of the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, can I apply for further funding this year?
Applicants who have received funding under previous rounds of the Local Sport Defibrillator Program are eligible to apply but will only be funded if the program allocation has not been fully exhausted by the closing date.
Do I need to have an ABN when I apply?
No. In order to receive grant payments, successful applicants will require either an ABN or provide an Australian Tax Office Statement of Supplier form. If your application is successful, further information will be provided to you.
How do I know whether my organisation is incorporated?
Your club/association treasurer should have a certificate of incorporation, or you can search for your incorporated status with:
- NSW Incorporated Associations Register
- ASIC Register
- Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations
- Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission
How can we make a case that the majority of our organisation’s membership resides in eligible postcodes as per appendix C of the Guidelines?
You can provide a statement of support from your governing, declaring that over 50% of your members reside within the eligible postcodes (as per Appendix C). If your organisation does not have a governing body, you are able to provide a statutory declaration using the templates provided from the Program website.
What is financial hardship and how will it be assessed?
Applicants that would like to apply for this grant that do not meet eligibility criteria 1 would need to apply under financial hardship, which must be demonstrated by:
- Providing formal documentation to demonstrate financial hardship showing the organisation’s current financial position. Documentation must be one or more of the following:
- Profit and loss statements and balance sheets
- Cash flow statements
- Tax returns and BAS statements
- Letters from accountants or financial advisers confirming financial hardship.
Financial hardship is not intended to include where an applicant has significant assets or have not elected to prioritise the project within available resources. All assessments of financial hardship will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will be at the absolute discretion of the Office of Sport.
Automated external defibrillator packages and providers
What is included in an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) package to be funded under the Program?
The Office of Sport procurement process ensures that Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) being purchased with grant funding meet certain minimum standards.
Applicants must purchase an approved AED package from approved Service Providers.
View the list of all approved packages and their pricing in the application form and program website.
Applicants must rely on their own enquiries as to the suitability of the approved AED Service Provider or package for their needs. Each approved Service Provider has developed their own package. Applicants must make their own enquiries as to any additional inclusions beyond the minimum package requirements.
At a minimum, the provision of an AED package will include:
- An AED
- AED familiarisation instruction
- A minimum of six years of essential defibrillator maintenance. Note that battery warranties may have a shorter duration.
If I choose a more expensive package, will I get more funding?
No. The maximum grant allocation is $3,000 per Automated External Defibrillator (AED) package. Any additional expenditure is the responsibility of the applicant.
Can I choose my Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and provider?
Yes, but they must be an approved device from Approved Service Providers, as listed in the Program Guidelines.
How will I know which package and provider is best for my club?
Applicants should make their own enquiries, talk to service providers, and determine the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) products and services that best meet their needs.
How was the list of approved Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Service Providers, products and services determined?
The approved AED Service Providers, AED products and services displayed on the Office of Sport website have successfully met the minimum requirements through the NSW Government pre-qualification process and are required to maintain these requirements under the panel contract with the Office of Sport.
Can I purchase an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) from a service provider that is not approved?
No. The grant may only be used to purchase the approved AED products and services from the list of approved AED Service Providers available in the Program Guidelines.
Can I purchase the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) prior to notification of the outcome of my application, and still receive funding?
Any costs you incur prior to the grant announcement are at your own risk and not the responsibility of the Office of Sport. AED packages purchased prior to submitting your application are ineligible under this program.
How long do applicants have to purchase an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) package and undertake the familiarisation induction?
Within six months of accepting the funding terms and conditions, successful applicants must purchase and install an AED. They must participate in AED familiarisation instruction within 28 days of delivery.
Who is responsible for the upkeep of the Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
The successful applicant is the owner of the device and is required to be responsible for and maintain the AED for a minimum of six years.
Do I have to participate in the data sharing scheme?
To support community safety and improve public access to life-saving equipment, all successful applicants of the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program will be required to register the location and accessibility of their AED on the GoodSAM AED Registry.
This requirement aligns with NSW Government efforts to enhance emergency response capabilities by enabling emergency services and members of the public to quickly locate nearby AEDs in the event of a cardiac emergency.
I am a supplier and I have not been included in the guidelines.
The service providers identified in the Program Guidelines were pre-qualified in 2022 from an official procurement process.
Other questions
What happens if I have an issue with submitting an application?
The online system will not accept applications submitted after the program has closed. Final applications will close at 1pm on 7 October 2026 unless funding allocation is exhausted beforehand.
If you are having problems submitting your application, you should contact 13 13 02 or email grants@sport.nsw.gov.au well in advance of the closing date and in time to seek assistance.
What assistance can Office of Sport staff provide?
Office of Sport staff are available to provide advice to applicants on the applications process including understanding the guidelines.
Staff are not able to provide advice on the choice of Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Will late applications be accepted?
Late applications can only be made where an applicant has started an application in SmartyGrants prior to the closing date/time. If for any reason you are not able to lodge your application on time, you must contact the Office of Sport at the earliest possible time after the closing date/time.
The final determination on whether a late application will be accepted will be made by the Office of Sport supported by a probity advisor.
Note that the program may close prior to the closing date if the program funding allocation is exhausted. No further applications will be received in the 2026/27 program if the funding allocation is exhausted prior to the closing date. Where the funding allocation has been exhausted, the Office of Sport will update the website with this information.
The supplier I chose no longer has the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or package available, can I choose another one?
We encourage applicants to research the features and availability of all AED packages on offer.
Should the service provider selected in your application no longer have stock, another supplier can be chosen from the approved list, or an alternative package chosen. However, the approved grant amount will not be increased if the alternative package price is a higher value. If you wish to change the supplier or package you nominated in the application form, you will need to complete a variation request in SmartyGrants.
I was awarded funding, but the supplier is charging me a different amount than stated on the website, what do I do?
The suppliers are obligated to charge you the price quoted and enter into a customer contract with you as a condition of this grant and the procurement process through which they became an approved supplier. Please contact the Office of Sport by email at defibs@sport.nsw.gov.au should you require assistance with a supplier concern.
What can I do if I have any enquiries?
Should you have an enquiry regarding your eligibility, please contact the Program on defibs@sport.nsw.gov.au.
If your question relates to completing an application, please contact the Grants Unit at grants@sport.nsw.gov.au.
General Questions
What is the purpose of the Local Sport Grant program?
The overall aim of the grant program is to increase regular and ongoing participation opportunities in sport in NSW. The grant program has a specific set of objectives, and these can be found in the Grant Program Guidelines.
How do I prepare and submit an application?
Applying for the Local Sport Grant Program is a simple process and must be done using the Office of Sport’s SmartyGrants website (sport.smartygrants.com.au). You can preview and download a copy of the application form from SmartyGrants prior to commencing your application.
Before you apply, please read the Program Guidelines and related materials including the necessary supporting information and documents you will need to make sure you understand all relevant requirements.
For assistance, please contact the Office of Sport on 13 13 02 or email grants@sport.nsw.gov.au.
If you have difficulties with the internet, your local library or TAFE College may be able to assist you with access to the internet.
When do applications need to be lodged by?
Applications must be lodged by Monday 24 August at 1pm AEST via SmartyGrants.
It is good practice to complete the application in SmartyGrants well prior to the closing time.
Can more than one application be submitted?
Yes. Applicants may submit more than one application. However, there is a limit of $20,000 that can be awarded to any one organisation.
How do I know if my organisation is incorporated?
Your club/association should have a certificate of incorporation with your incorporation number, or alternatively you can search for your incorporation status using the following registers:
NSW Incorporated Associations Register
ASIC Register
Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission
Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations
Alternatively, call NSW Fair Trading on 1800 502 042.
The registered name for the applicant organisation must be the same on the relevant incorporation register and ABN details (if held).
How do I load supporting documents to the grant?
Scan any hard copy letters or quotes and save them as a PDF. These can then be uploaded in the relevant sections of your application.
What if I can’t get a document that I need to upload to support my application before the program closing date/time?
Unfortunately, late supporting documentation will not be accepted under the Program. The Program is highly competitive, and you must ensure you have all the required documentation prior to the program closing date and time.
Will late applications be accepted?
Late applications can only be made where an applicant has started an application in SmartyGrants prior to the closing date/time.
If for some unforeseen reason you are not able to lodge your application on time, you must contact the Office of Sport (grants@sport.nsw.gov.au) within one hour of the closing date/time.
A late application will only be considered where its acceptance would not compromise the integrity and competitiveness of the process. The final determination on whether a late application will be accepted will be made by the Office of Sport supported by a probity advisor.
Full details of the Office of Sport’s policy on late applications can be found in the Grant Program Guidelines.
What assistance can the Office of Sport staff provide?
Office of Sport staff can clarify the interpretation of the Guidelines but cannot provide specific advice about whether your organisation or project is eligible.
Can the Office of Sport review my draft application?
No. The Office Sport staff cannot review or provide feedback on any draft grant applications.
English is not my first language; can I get any assistance?
Select the ‘Language’ button at the top right of the page and translate the page to your preferred language.
If you would like the use of a translator, please call the National Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450, and ask them to call us on 13 13 02. The service provides immediate phone interpreting.
Do I need to finish the application in one go?
No. Applications may be saved, revisited and edited before being submitted, but applications must be submitted by Monday 24 August at 1pm AEST.
Assessment Criteria and Eligibility questions
Who can apply?
Incorporated not-for-profit grassroots sport club or sports association, whose primary focus is to organise regular sporting activities and deliver on-going sporting programs and/or develop member’s skills can apply. Organisations must also be affiliated with an Office of Sport recognised State Sporting Organisation or State Sporting Organisation for People with Disability. More information on who is eligible can be found in the Guidelines.
Who cannot apply?
Ineligible applicants are any organisation types not listed in the ‘Eligible Applicants’ section of the Program Guidelines, and include (but are not limited to):
- Individuals, groups of individuals and unincorporated organisations.
- Incorporated not-for-profit organisations that are not affiliated with a State Sporting Organisation or State Sporting Organisation for people with Disability.
- For-profit organisations.
- PCYCs/YMCA/Scouts/Girl Guides/Surf Life Saving Clubs or Branches.
- Parents and Citizens (P&C) Associations.
- Private enterprises (companies established under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), incorporated associations established under the Associations Act 2009 (NSW) or incorporated limited partnerships established under the Partnership Act 1892 (NSW)).
- Government departments and agencies, including Local Government Authorities operating under the Local Government Act 1993, and Local Government Committees.
- Educational institutions including Schools, Universities, TAFE Colleges and childcare centres.
- NSW Institute of Sport, State Sporting Organisations, Australian Sports Commission (incorporating the Australian Institute of Sport), National Sporting Organisation and NSW Regional Academies of Sport.
- Other community base or religious groups that are not affiliated with a State Sporting Organisation/State Sporting Organisation for people with Disability.
- Organisations named:
- (i) by the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse on its list of institutions that have not joined or signified their intent not to join the Scheme; or
- (ii) in the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse that has not yet joined the National Redress Scheme.
How do I make sure that my application is eligible?
Closely review the eligibility criteria in the program guidelines to ensure your organisation and project is eligible, here is some further information regarding eligibility;
Eligible applicants:
- Applicant has provided a valid Incorporation number and where relevant an ABN (where an applicant organisation has provided an ABN, the incorporation details for the same organisation).
- If the application has been submitted by a sports organisation or club associated with a church or a school, the incorporation details have been confirmed and are in the name of the organisation/club.
- The application, if submitted by a licensed club, specifically relates to the sport and not the licensed premises.
- The applicant organisation has confirmed that if successful they will provide Public Liability Insurance with a minimum $5 million cover.
- The sport included within the application is listed in Appendix A.
Project eligibility:
- Proposed project is delivered in NSW
- Project is an eligible project, related to an eligible sport, including all project expenditure.
- Be completed by June 2028
- For a project/s that:
- Contributes to quality sporting experiences and/or;
- Improves access to sporting events by reducing barriers to participation and/or;
Creates, upgrades or repairs sports facilities.
What costs are ineligible?
The Local Sport Grant Program ineligible project types and project components include:
- Operational costs e.g., staff or coach wages for existing programs, regular venue hire and administration costs that relate to the running of the applicant organisation
- Office equipment (e.g., office furniture, television, computers, iPads, printers, photocopiers etc.)
- Yearly subscriptions and memberships (Subscription costs for video technology are eligible for first year only).
- Subsidised registrations for players, for regular and on-going (weekly, monthly) competitions
- Accommodation, food/catering and travel (except where specified as eligible above for regional travel)
- Appearance fees, gifts, prize money, trophies/medals and trophy cabinets
- Retrospective funding e.g., projects that have already commenced and/or purchases completed prior to application submission
- Events that are scheduled prior to January 2027
- Functions such as presentation days, annual general meetings and celebrations
- Entertainment
- Medical equipment (e.g., defibrillators, first aid kits)
- Private or commercial ventures
- Events that are organised for the primary purpose of fundraising, including charity fundraising events
- Individual scholarships/sponsorships
- Insurance of any type (player, public liability, general liability, etc)
- Purchase or rental of land or premises
- Purchase of vehicles that require registration
- Costs associated with preparing and submitting the funding application
- Costs associated with feasibility, design, or development stages including feasibility studies, business cases and masterplans
- Projects not based in NSW
- Subsidy for activities and events conducted for schools
- Projects already funded by the NSW Government for the same project or same component of a project.
Please note: Project budgets should not include any ineligible costs, and these will be removed by assessors if included, at the absolute discretion of the Office of Sport.
What criteria applies to the assessment of applications?
Eligible applications will be assessed against the Fund’s objectives, focus, and aim and the following assessment criteria:
- Strategic justification
- Scope and deliverables
- Value for money
- Project deliverability and applicant capability
The Assessment criteria is detailed in the Program Guidelines.
Do I need to have an ABN?
No. However, if your application is successful, in order to receive grant payments successful applicants will be required to provide a statement of supplier form through the grants acceptance process.
Statement of supplier forms and eligibility for their use is available online from the Australian Taxation Office.
What supporting documentation should be added to the application?
All applications should provide:
- Quotes (no more than 6 months old), and the description should match the project scope and deliverables in the application and support the project budget.
- Evidence confirming all financial co-contribution sources (where applicable).
- Development approval, application, or exemption (where applicable).
- Projects proposing fixed items are required to provide Landowners Consent. This is recommended to provided on the Office of Sport Landowners Consent template – see ‘Available supporting documents’.
- Letters from organisations that indicate how they will either support or benefit from the project.
- Current Public Liability Insurance with a minimum $5 million cover
Failure to provide any of this supporting documentation will negatively impact the merit assessment score your application receives.
How can I demonstrate the project need?
To demonstrate project need, you may consider the following:
- Photos of existing condition to show level of dilapidation or inadequacy, safety issues or disability access or non-compliance with building codes.
- Surveys taken from community groups, club members, players, etc. that highlight the need
- Letters of support from your Council, community groups or expected users outlining the need
- Demographic data demonstrating population groups or socio-economic rating
- Any other related evidence that supports the need for your project.
Why do I have to supply quotes with my application?
To show that the project costs are accurate and the project can be achieved with available funding. If the final project cost is higher than expected, your organisation will be required to cover the shortfall in costs. If your final project cost is less than expected, you may have to repay money to the Office of Sport.
What is meant by ‘Home Ground’ or project location?
This is the address where your clubhouse is located or where your club primarily trains. This is normally the project location.
You can request funding for a project somewhere else or facility that is not your home ground as defined above, however it is recommended you explain why the project is being held elsewhere.
All applications are assessed within the electorate where the project location is based, as specified in the application.
What is meant by rural and remote?
The term rural and remote covers any area outside of New South Wales major cities.
Do we need to submit the application under the organisation name that matches our ABN (if applicable) and incorporated entity name?
Yes. The organisation name listed in your application must align with the name registered against your ABN and incorporation number. If they don’t match, you may risk being deemed as ineligible.
What approvals do I need to do if the project is to create, upgrade or repair sports facilities?
In addition to the main questions in the application form, you will need to supply landowners’ consent for the project (see supporting documents) and provide evidence of Development Application approval or demonstrate that a Development Application is not required.
Universal Design
What are inclusive and accessible facilities?
Inclusive and accessible facilities consider Universal Design in their approach. “Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.” Refer to the Universal Design for more information.
What are inclusive design and best practice design principles?
Inclusive design keeps the diversity and uniqueness of each individual project in mind and allows maximum use, by the widest range of people, without the need to adapt or add accessories. It includes the incorporation of universal design principles and providing safe, dignified and equitable access through functional space. Designs should be beyond Building Code of Australia or Access standards to ensure facilities are accessible to more people.
To help organisations to successfully develop their grant proposals, the following Australian Standards legally must be complied with:
- Australian Standards -
- AS 1428.1:2022 Design for access and mobility Part 1: General requirements for access—New building work
- DR AS 1428.2-2022 Design for access and mobility Enhanced and additional requirements - Buildings and facilities (Reconfirmed 2015)
- AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009 Design for access and mobility Means to assist the orientation of people with vision impairment - Tactile ground surface indicators
- DR AS 1428.4.2:2022 Design for access and mobility Part 4.2: Means to assist the orientation of people with vision impairment - Wayfinding signs
- AS 1428.5:2022 Design for access and mobility Communication for people who are deaf or hearing impaired
For further information:
Design for Dignity Guidelines
NSW Government Architects
NSW Government Architects - Urban Design for Regional NSW
Incorporation of universal design principles and providing safe, dignified and equitable access through functional space. Designs should be beyond Building Code of Australia or Access standards to ensure facilities are accessible to more people. Refer to https://www.and.org.au/data/Design_ for Dignity/Design_for_Dignity_Guidelines_ Aug_2016.pdf
Financial and co-contributions questions
Is there a limit on the level of funding for an application?
The grant amount requested must be a minimum of $2,000 and cannot exceed $20,000.
A single organisation may make multiple applications; however the maximum amount of funding that can be awarded to any one organisation is $20,000.
Can organisations make a joint application?
An application needs to be made by a single eligible organisation which will accept responsibility should the application be successful. However, the application may identify partners that will add to the applicant organisation’s capacity to deliver the project. Partner organisations do not need to be eligible organisations.
Do we include GST in the budget?
- Organisations registered for GST: exclude GST from the amount of funding requested in your project budget. GST will be paid to your organisation if successful.
- Organisations not registered for GST: include GST in the costs for your project budget. Please ensure that quotes you receive are inclusive of GST that will be charged by trades or suppliers.
What evidence can I upload of a financial co-contribution to the project?
You should provide evidence of approval for committed funding co-contribution(s) e.g., funding agreement, letter from fund/grant provider, letter from organisation’s treasurer or President.
Do we need to provide quotes for the budget?
Yes, you should provide evidence to support budgeted costs and revenues.
Quotes should be recent (no more than 6 months old), align and substantiate the main items of work to be funded with your grant application.
Providing quotes is not mandatory but by not supplying quotes with your application you are potentially not demonstrating the grant request is accurate or cost effective and will not score as well as it might otherwise and risk not being recommended for funding.
Should I select to accept partial funding?
The assessor of your application has the discretion to recommend projects within their electorate partial funding. If your application indicates that it cannot proceed without full funding, this removes this option and your application is at risk of not receiving any funding by selecting this option. The reduced funding recommendation may be only a small amount of the grant requested amount.
If the recommended grant amount you are awarded is less than you can actually complete the project with, you can elect not to accept the offer of grant funding then.
Assessment and Announcement
What happens after I submit my application?
You will receive an email notification that your application has been successfully submitted, this email will contain a PDF copy of your application. Please check that you receive the confirmation email and retain it as a record of your application.
If you do not receive a confirmation email, your application may not have been successfully submitted, or the confirmation email may have ended up in your junk mailbox.
You can also log into SmartyGrants and click ‘My Submissions’ to view all submitted and un-submitted applications. Submitted applications are identified by a green tick in a circle.
Will all applications receive funding?
No. The application process is competitive. It is anticipated that there will be multiple applications competing for the funding available within your electorate.
Successful applications will be those which best meet the objectives of the program, can demonstrate a need for the project, provide a cost-effective budget and can demonstrate that the organisation applying has the capacity to deliver the project. It is important to also provide supporting documentation such as quotes to help prove the claims made in your application.
What happens after applications close?
Applications are reviewed for eligibility and then subject to the assessment process. The final decision on funding sits with the Minister for Sport.
When will I know if my application is successful or not?
Outcomes of all applications will be advised from December 2026 onwards.
What if my application is unsuccessful?
There are no appeals for unsuccessful applications under this program. It is recommended that you apply again in the next round of the program. Due to the high volume of applications, the Office of Sport Grants Unit is unable to provide individual feedback on each unsuccessful application.
If your application is not successful, it does not mean your application lacks merit. LSGP is a very competitive grant program. Assessment of applications is through a merit selection process.
If you receive a letter of notification indicating that your organisation status or the project scope is ineligible, refer to the eligibility criteria of the Program Guidelines for more information.
How long do we have to accept the grant if we are successful?
The Office of Sport will contact the successful applicants to claim the grant within two weeks of being notified of success. Failure to claim the grant within two weeks of notification may result in the Office of Sport withdrawing the offer of funding.
The project timeline is program specific; information can be found in the Program Guidelines.
How will we receive the grant payment?
All grant payments are made by EFT. Through the grant acceptance process, successful applicants need to submit EFT banking details. It is your responsibility to provide the correct banking details. Funds transferred to an incorrect bank account may not be recoverable.
How do successful applicants acknowledge the funding when projects are underway?
Successful applicants must acknowledge the NSW Government’s support through the provision of funding as per the NSW Government Funding Acknowledgement Guidelines and supporting evidence.
Funding recipients will typically require a statement of funding acknowledgment in the applicant’s annual reports and media releases; and a statement and the NSW Government logo included on building signage, related websites and invitations and other funding related materials. Funding recipients will receive full guidelines, logo and signage template files.
Further details about acknowledgment of NSW Government funding for projects can be found here.
If the project is subject to fraud, corruption or negligence, what should I do?
If you are provided a grant, it is your responsibility to put in place adequate controls to prevent fraud and corruption and avoid negligence. This requirement is stipulated in the funding agreement terms and conditions.
Fraud is defined by the Independent Commission Against Corruption as “dishonestly obtaining a benefit, or causing a loss, by deception or other means”, and corruption as “deliberate or intentional wrongdoing, not negligence or a mistake”. Grant recipients may experience fraud, corruption or negligence when dealing with contractors in the project, or within their own organisation or its governance. In general, negligence can be defined as the failure to take proper care over or for something.
Appropriate management of procurement processes, the management of contracts and contractors, the establishment of appropriate project management practices (including governance and oversight), and the declaration and management of conflicts of interest are common controls used to prevent or control such incidents. The Office of Sport does not cover the loss of project funding due to fraud, corruption or negligence on behalf of the grant recipient which may also result in the termination of a funding agreement for a grant.
If you experience fraud, corruption or negligence, you should notify the Office of Sport immediately. The Office of Sport can help your organisation work any variations required, except additional funding, to manage the impact on the project.
Fraud and corruption should always be reported to the police. More information about reporting fraud and corruption can be found at:
https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/crime/frauds_and_scams
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/report-fraud
https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/buying-products-and-services/scams
Additional Questions
Our club is outside a major city and we would like to bring coaches to our town from Sydney. Are we able to include these expenses as part of our grant submission?
Subsidised travel costs are eligible for specialist coaches to travel to rural/remote areas where the distance travelled exceeds 100km from the ‘home ground’.
Our sport is not currently listed on Appendix A, is our organisation eligible?
For sports that aren't listed on the eligible sport list, they will need to become recognised by the Office of Sport. In order for your organisation to be recognised by the Office of Sport, your State Sporting Organisation will need to submit a request to the Office of Sport.
For further information in regarding recognition by the Office of Sport, please click on the following link: NSW State Sporting Organisation Recognition Program | NSW Government.
Our sporting organisation is based and delivered in NSW, but affiliated with another State. Are we still eligible to apply?
Sporting Organisations that are based in NSW and deliver sports in NSW but are affiliated to a neighbouring State of Territory Sporting Organisation may be deemed eligible if they meet relevant NSW Government legislation and child safe practices.
Our club is not based in the electorate in which we plan to hold our event, it is in an adjoining electorate. Which electorate will our submission be considered in?
Applications will be assessed based on the project location. You should explain in your application why you wish to hold an event that is in a different location to where your club is located.
Can we submit a similar successful grant to that of 3 years ago?
The new grant request cannot be for project scope that has been previously funded by the NSW Government. However, if the project is for a similar participation program with new dates i.e. in 2027, or new equipment, this would be eligible.
Do we need to include contingency in the budget?
For projects where there is a construction element, you may include contingency in the budget, however you should ensure you have secured quotes for any project type to ensure you are requesting an appropriate amount of funding and that your organisation has enough money to cover any additional/unexpected costs.
We were planning on running an event in late 2026, what do we do as events cannot be scheduled prior to January 2027?
We suggest you apply for funding to host your event in late 2027 instead of late 2026. Projects are expected to be completed by June 2028, so you will have time to deliver the project in line with the guidelines.
If your event is planned to take place in 2027, you can start the planning for the event once you submit your application, however the event itself cannot take place until after January 2027.
Your organisation will also need to understand that any costs you incur prior to the grant announcement are at your own risk and not the responsibility of the Office of Sport.
- Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund
- Regional Sport Facility Fund
- Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund
- Safe Shooting Program
- Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund
- Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program
- Her Sport her Way Grant program
- Centre of Excellence Fund
- Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund
- Regional Academy of Sport Grant Program
- Sport Priority Needs
- Sport Infrastructure Recovery Fund
- Football Legacy Fund
Key grant programs and resources that support sport and recreation projects include:
