This comprehensive funding initiative will support the development of community Australian
Rules Football facilities across New South Wales, helping to ensure the continued growth and
inclusivity of Australian Football at the grassroots level.
A total of $742,027 has been allocated to 20 projects from the AFL - representing a combined
total project value of $14.8 million.
Successful projects include seven new female-friendly change room upgrades, four new lighting projects, and five additional training or playing venues.
These upgrades reflect AFL NSW/ACT’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and community-focused football environment.
Head of AFL NSW/ACT, Andrew Varasdi, shared his excitement for the successful applicants.
‘’It’s so exciting to deliver the first round of the NSW Facilities Fund and support our community
clubs and Councils to provide high-quality, accessible, and welcoming facilities’’, he said.
‘’These projects will enable greater participation in our great game, especially for women and
girls, and continue to strengthen the grassroots foundations of AFL across New South Wales.’’
‘’It’s so important for our players, parents and volunteers to have access to fit for purpose
facilities and we encourage all clubs and Councils to contact the AFL to discuss how we can
work together to create the best environments to enjoy our game.''
President of Ramsgate Football Club, Chris Nixon, spoke about the benefits the grant will
bring to the club.
‘’Our club is delighted to have secured this grant under the NSW Facilities fund’’, he said.
‘’This funding will contribute to the upgrade of the floodlights at our home ground and will allow
our teams to train at night during the week and play night games.’’
‘’This additional availability of time on the oval will increase our participation numbers in both
boys' and girls' teams.’’
‘’Our club would like to thank AFL NSW/ACT for their support in securing this funding.’’
Successful Applicants
A full list of recipients of the NSW Facilities Fund can be found here.
The 2025 NSW Facilities Fund was established by AFL NSW/ACT to:
- Maximise carrying capacity of existing venues by upgrading facilities and providing high-quality infrastructure.
- Develop new and increased carrying capacity by constructing new ovals in growing communities and exploring innovative facility solutions.
- Ensure inclusivity and accessibility, with particular emphasis on creating female-friendly environments and supporting the growing participation of women and girls.
- Enhance the talent pathway, including resources for umpiring, dedicated spaces for volunteers, and maintaining landmark heritage sites associated with the game.
- Facilitate partnerships with government and non-government bodies to improve the quantity, quality, and welcoming nature of community football venues.
- Provide immediate support to those affected by natural disasters, ensuring community venues remain safe, accessible, and resilient.
For inquiries, interviews, or further information about the NSW Facilities Fund, please contact:
Samuel Thomson
Venue and Government Partnerships Manager - NSW
Samuel.Thomson@afl.com.au
Nick Baglin
Community Venue Development Lead - NSW
Nick.Baglin@afl.com.au