The Program is part of the NSW Office of Sport’s $10 million investment in rugby as a result of NSW hosting games at the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program will provide grants to rugby clubs and councils throughout NSW to improve rugby facilities and infrastructure, improve player pathways and increase participation.
During the first round of the program $2.15 million is available with grants ranging from $5,000 - $150,000.
The Program has a focus on developing the game in western Sydney and regional NSW with projects that target women and girls, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, people with disability, First Nations peoples and LGBTQIA+ people a priority.
The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program will be delivered by the NSW Government in collaboration with NSW Rugby Union, ACT & Southern NSW Rugby Union and Rugby Australia.
Applications close Monday, 16 February 2026. Visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/nsw-rugby-world-cup-legacy-grant-program for further information and to apply.
NSW Office of Sport Deputy Secretary Adam Berry said:
“Ensuring the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 leaves a legacy at all levels of the sport is a priority of the Office of Sport.
“We want to ensure that people in all parts of the State, in particular western Sydney and regional NSW benefit from NSW hosting games at the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
“The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program will achieve that through grants for infrastructure, equipment and participation regardless of whether you play for Blue Mountains Blue Tongues or Batemans Bay Boars.”
Rugby NSW CEO Peter Murphy said:
“This announcement represents a significant and long-term investment in the future of rugby in New South Wales and the communities that make our game what it is.”
“The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program will strengthen the foundations of our sport - improving facilities, expanding pathways for young players, accelerating the growth of the women’s game, and ensuring rugby is accessible and welcoming to everyone.”
“Hosting a home World Cup is about far more than what happens on the field. It’s about creating opportunities, deepening community connections and setting the game up for the next generation. This investment ensures that all communities across NSW from western Sydney to regional NSW will feel the benefits for many years to come.”