Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres and the National Rugby League (NRL) have announced the NSW Footy Facilities Fund is now open for applications until 12th August 2015.
"This program is an excellent example of collaboration between sport and the Government," Mr Ayres said.
"Partnering with the NRL, the Footy Facilities Fund aims to provide facilities for grassroots clubs to help increase participation, safety and security, environmental sustainability, social inclusion and build strong local and regional communities."
The main objectives of the Footy Facilities Fund are to increase regular and ongoing participation opportunities in rugby league and to improve the standard of grounds and facilities.
Additionally, applications can be strengthened by addressing one or more of the following:
• improving safety at sport and recreation facilities (e.g. providing safer playing field, access pathways for players, disability ramps)
• increase the security at sport and recreation facilities (e.g. installation of fencing)
• remove barriers to promote inclusion in rugby league (e.g. upgrade of amenities to increase female participation, provision of disability access, upgrade of referee amenities)
• develop environmentally sustainable sport and recreation facilities (e.g. installation of drainage, rainwater tanks, more efficient lighting)
• building strong communities.
NRL Head of Football Todd Greenberg said grassroots facilities were crucial to the success of rugby league.
"This program not only improves the safety and security of facilities at local footy clubs, it also provides the services needed to help more boys, girls and people with disabilities to be part of our game," Mr Greenberg said.
Funding is available for projects across NSW. Visit dsr.nsw.gov.au/grants or call 13 13 02 for more information.
