New Regional All Abilities Participation Grants provide up to $25,000
Following the impressive performance of Australian Paralympians at the 2024 Paris Games, Victoria is moving to expand sports access for people with disabilities. Applications are now open for the Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, aimed at boosting inclusion for people with disabilities in regional Victoria who wish to engage in sport.
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The grants, announced by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence, offer up to $25,000 to organisations in three main categories: Equipment and Travel, Inclusion Workforce, and Programs and Disability-led Initiatives. Eligible funding can be used to cover specialised equipment—such as adaptive sports gear, modified uniforms, and speech-generating devices—as well as technology that aids accessibility, like auditory goal indicators and adjustable sports goals.
Support extends to clubs already equipped with the right gear, with grants available to help fund wages for trained coaches and support staff who specialise in working with athletes with disabilities. Grant money may also go toward travel expenses for competitions and events or for developing new, inclusive sports programs.
Community organisations such as local clubs, state sporting associations, and disability advocacy groups are encouraged to apply, with the hope of enhancing regional sporting opportunities. The grants are part of the state’s $40 million All Abilities Sport Fund, which seeks to break down barriers to sports participation for people with disabilities across regional Victoria.
This initiative aligns with the goals outlined in the state’s Active Victoria 2022-2026 framework, aimed at fostering greater inclusion in sports and active recreation across the state.
