The Sporting Club Grants Program gives clubs the chance to secure grants to buy new sports uniforms and equipment, or to expand the skills of coaches and officials.

Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford said this round also includes a new category of grants that aims to break down barriers and make it easier for Aboriginal Victorians to get involved in grassroots sport, including travel assistance to compete in local competitions or carnivals.

Grants of up to $750 are available for travel and up to $1,000 to buy new team uniforms or equipment. In addition, grants of up to $2,000 are available to expand the skills of coaches and officials.

Clubs can also receive up to $5,000 for initiatives that strengthen their operations and grow their membership.

The announcement comes in the same week as funding boosts for the Stawell Golf Club and Stawell Football Netball Club’s female team. 

“It will help the girls to participate and hopefully get better at their skills and football”, Warriors coach Andrew Bach said.

The money was provided through VicHealth’s Active Club Grants.

Ms Pulford said the funding boost is part of the state government’s $600,000 boost to increase participation in sport and recreation for Aboriginal young people.

“We know that at a grassroots level, more work needs to be done to help Aboriginal kids get more active and play the sports they love and that’s why here in Western Victoria, we’re bridging cultural divides through sport and creating more accessible and inclusive clubs for all,” Ms Pulford said.

“I encourage clubs in Western Victoria to make the most of this support and apply online now for new uniforms, better equipment or training for their coaches,” she said.

Applications for the Sporting Club Grants Program close on July 19 2017.

For more information or to apply online, visit www.sport.vic.gov.au