Bush Sports Funding: The 2026 Playbook for Our Local Clubs and Families

In Short

• Double Vouchers: Eligible families can now stack 2025 and 2026 vouchers for a $100 discount on kids' sports and creative fees.
• School Funding: Applications for Sporting Schools grants (up to $3,650) open February 16—parents are encouraged to nudge their school principals to apply.
• Club Upgrades: Results for the Local Sport Grant Program are being announced this month, potentially bringing up to $20,000 for facility repairs and gear.

Families across Hay, Balranald, Carrathool, and Central Darling are well-acquainted with the "regional tax" on youth sports. Between the long-haul drives to away games and the mounting cost of registration, keeping kids active in the Far West and Riverina is a significant financial commitment.

However, as of February 2026, a series of state and federal funding windows have opened, offering a much-needed financial reprieve for local households and community clubs.

For parents receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A or B, a unique overlap in the voucher cycle means $100 is currently available per child.

The second voucher from 2025 remains valid until July 14, 2026, while the first 2026 voucher has just been released. When used together at registered providers—covering everything from netball in Hay to swimming lessons in Balranald—they provide a $100 deduction from registration or equipment fees.

Local schools are also in the spotlight this month. On February 16, 2026, applications open for the Term 2 Sporting Schools grants. Schools in remote and regional LGAs like Carrathool and Central Darling are particularly well-positioned, as they often qualify for additional funding to cover the high travel costs associated with bringing in qualified coaches.

While parents cannot apply for these $1,000 to $3,650 grants themselves, the program is designed to run during school hours, ensuring kids who rely on afternoon bus schedules don't miss out.

For the committees running our local clubs, February marks a month of anticipation. The outcomes of the 2025 Local Sport Grant Program are due for announcement. In the Murray electorate, which encompasses Hay and Balranald, significant funding is expected to flow toward facility upgrades and coach training.

Additionally, the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program remains a critical priority. With up to $3,000 available to install AEDs, local leaders emphasize that these devices are a "no-brainer" for rural grounds where professional medical help may be many kilometers away.

The key to securing these funds is preparation. Regional experts suggest that clubs in smaller communities often see their money go further, but success depends on being "shovel-ready."

Successful applicants are encouraged to connect with their representatives. Helen Dalton, Member for Murray, and Sussan Ley, Member for Farrer, both maintain staff who track these funding cycles and can provide early notice and letters of support for local projects.

While grant funding doesn't shorten the drive to the next carnival, for a small town club, it can be the difference between thriving and folding.

To help our local schools and clubs in the Hay, Balranald, and Carrathool areas get their applications moving, here are the essential contact details and resources for the funding mentioned in the story.

These offices are your first stop for letters of support or early intel on grant cycles.

Helen Dalton, MP (Member for Murray)

Hay/Griffith Office: 286 Banna Ave, Griffith NSW 2680

Phone: (02) 6962 6644

Email: [email protected]

The Hon. Sussan Ley, MP (Member for Farrer)

Griffith Office: 152 Banna Ave, Griffith NSW 2680

Phone: (02) 6964 1212

Email: [email protected]

School & Club Grant Support

Sporting Schools Program

For Schools: If you are nudging your principal, they can contact the Program Operations Centre for help with the February 16 application.

Phone: 1300 785 707

Email: [email protected]

NSW Office of Sport (Local Sport & Defibrillator Grants)

Phone: 13 13 02

Email: [email protected]

Website: sport.nsw.gov.au/grants

Voucher Assistance

Service NSW

Online: service.nsw.gov.au

In Person: Visit the Hay Service Centre at 122 Lachlan Street.