Grant Program opens to support Victoria's First Nations Athletes

The Victorian Government is supporting the state’s next generation of First Nations athletes with the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program now open for uniforms, equipment, travel and participation in sport carnivals.

From the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles to Super Netball, the performances of First Nations athletes on the big stage are an inspiration to all Victorians.

The program delivers grants of up to $1,000 for team uniforms and equipment, and up to $2,500 for travel costs so clubs can participate in both Victorian and national tournaments.

Individuals can also access up to $250 to purchase sporting uniforms and equipment, and up to $750 for their own travel costs.

Previous recipients include Reservoir based Debbie's Diamonds who scored almost $3,000 towards travel costs, supporting their Mens C Grade and Womens B Grade basketball teams to compete at the recent 2025 VACSAL State-wide Basketball Classic in Mildura.

Mernda Calisthenics Club also bagged more than $500 towards uniforms for five club members from ages 15 to 24 to enable them to compete in the local competition.

This grant program is part of the Victorian Government's strong support for the Victorian Aboriginal community. Since 2020, the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program has provided more than 480 grants to community sport clubs and individuals in Victoria's Indigenous communities.

There are three grant categories:

Category 1 – Aboriginal Sporting Carnivals
Up to $2,500 per junior team and $1,500 per senior team to help with travel, accommodation and registration for Aboriginal sporting carnivals or tournaments.

Category 2 – Uniforms or Equipment
Up to $1,000 per team or $250 per individual to help cover the cost of sports uniforms and gear.

Category 3 – Athlete Participation Support
Up to $750 per individual to support travel and accommodation for training or competing at regional, state or national level.

For more info and to apply visit sport.vic.gov.au/funding/aboriginal-sport-participation-grant-program