Major Funding Boost for NSW Sports Sector

The NSW sporting landscape is set for substantial enhancement with the launch of the Organisation Support Program (OSP), which opened applications on 2 October 2024. This initiative marks a significant increase in funding, with a total pool rising from $2.5 million in the 2023 financial year to $10 million annually by 2025. The program aims to assist State Sporting Organisations (SSOs) and State Sporting Organisations for People with Disability (SSODs) in their efforts to foster participation and improve governance in sports across the state.

This funding increase is particularly beneficial for emerging sports, which will now have access to grants rising from $5,000 to $50,000. This financial support will enable these organisations to hire essential resources, thereby enhancing their capacity to foster growth and participation within their sports.

The key objectives of the OSP focus on developing sporting activities at all levels in NSW. The program aims to:

• Increase the capability of the sector to respond to emerging trends and challenges.
• Create fair, safe, and inclusive environments for all participants, including children.
• Increase participation, particularly among under-represented groups, with a strong emphasis on women and girls.
• Build governance capability within organisations and the sector at large.
• Support and enhance pathways for sport participants, facilitating their development and progression.
• Strengthen the operational functions of organisations, ensuring they are equipped to meet their goals effectively.

The OSP will distribute a total of $20 million over the next two years, allowing sporting organisations to improve their delivery of competitions, enhance athlete pathways, and develop staff and management capabilities.

Applications are due by 1PM on 29 November 2024. Successful applicants will enter into funding agreements to manage the distribution of resources effectively, with funding set to commence from 1 July 2025.

For more details on eligibility criteria, application requirements, and the assessment process, organisations are encouraged to review the Organisation Support Program Guidelines.

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