Released 02/04/2026
Canberra sporting and recreation clubs will share more than $4.2 million in funding following a $1 million injection into the latest round of the ACT Government’s Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme.
The Scheme offers four funding streams designed to strengthen community sport and active recreation across the Territory:
- Community Sport Facilities Funding Program - supports the development of new, high‑quality and sustainable facilities, or upgrades to existing facilities, helping maintain and grow participation in physical activity across the Canberra community.
- Club Enhancement Program - assists sporting and recreation organisations to build their local services and programs, including purchasing equipment, upskilling coaches and officials, and improving club governance.
- State Organisation Support Program - provides funding through three‑year agreements to strengthen organisational capacity and capability.
- Industry Partnership Program - enables the ACT Government to co‑invest with State Sporting Organisations in innovative, collaborative projects that are scalable and sustainable.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Yvette Berry, said this election commitment to inject a further $1 million plays a key role in maintaining and upgrading sporting facilities ensures they remain fit for purpose, accessible and sustainable.
“Sport and recreation play a vital role in bringing our community together. This funding supports local organisations to improve facilities, build capability and create more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate,” Minister Berry said.
“This round of funding will help 44 not-for-profit sport, recreation and community organisations meet current and future demand while supporting long term participation in sport and active recreation.
“Organisations receiving funding this year include the Murrumbidgee Golf Club for irrigation redevelopment, Majura Tennis Club for shade structures and seats, the Belconnen United Sharks Rugby League Football Club for construction of new LED lighting, and Netball ACT for solar battery installation.
“By improving facilities and strengthening clubs, we’re ensuring more Canberrans stay active, connected and healthy.”
The Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme supports the ACT Government’s CBR Next Move strategy by investing in facilities and programs that encourage more Canberrans to get involved in sport and active recreation.
Quotes attributable to Darren Piercy, President at Belconnen United Sharks Rugby League Club:
“Belconnen United Sharks RLFC are so excited to receive funding for new lighting, which will give us the opportunity to utilise the entire playing surface with over 120 players at our training days.
“New lighting will also allow us to host our 17's Girls and Boys on Friday nights. With the inaugural U19's Women’s competition on the cards for next season, the new lighting will provide additional opportunities for these players as well.
“With this level of investment in the facility, it opens the door for long term security and the opportunity to continue to overhaul and upgrade other areas through our partners, sponsors and supporters. We are truly grateful to the ACT Government for the funding and confidence in the site.”
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases