Clubs and players will benefit from more than $6 million to help build or upgrade community infrastructure and boost female participation as part of the NSW government’s Football Legacy Fund.
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the legacy of NSW hosting matches during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will live on long after the tournament ends.
“The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will bring the best players from across the globe to NSW as they compete for the prestigious title of world champions and the NSW government wants to ensure they leave a positive legacy for our next generation of football stars,” Mr Henskens said.
“The NSW Football Legacy Fund will ensure the entire NSW football family benefits from the state hosting World Cup matches, from grassroots through to elite-level competition.”
The program, delivered in partnership with Northern NSW Football and Football NSW, will focus on inclusive projects that encourage the participation of females and people with disability.
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the program will be invest in communities and secure a brighter future for football clubs across NSW.
“This funding will help enhance club facilities and provide a more welcoming and inclusive place for women and girls, whether they’re players, coaches, referees or administrators,” Ms Taylor said.
Northern NSW Football CEO David Eland said the fund would provide enormous opportunities to drive female participation.
“This funding will help to enhance club facilities to be more welcoming as well as provide more inclusive participation opportunities for women and girls,” Mr Eland said.
“This is a key strategic step in Northern NSW Football’s plans to achieve 35 per cent female participation by 2023 and I want to thank the NSW government for their commitment to football and the future of females in our game.”
Football Australia Head of Women’s Football, Women’s World Cup Legacy & Inclusion Sarah Walsh said it was an exciting milestone for the football community.
“These much-needed funds will ensure we can meet surging demand and support the growth of football, with a focus on women and girls, across the state,” Ms Walsh said.
Round One of the fund has two streams available. These include Infrastructure, with up to $2.5 million available for the upgrade or construction of new community facilities, and Participation, with up to $650,000 available for programs that support increased football participation and leadership development.
To apply, find out more at www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/nsw-football-legacy-fund
