Sporting clubs across South Australia are set for a fresh wave of upgrades, with the State Government awarding more than $5.6 million to 31 projects under the 2024–25 Community Recreation and Sport Facilities Program (CRSFP). From upgraded cricket nets to accessible changerooms, the funding targets grassroots needs — with a healthy portion directed to cricket.
The City of Port Adelaide Enfield tops the list, receiving $500,000 to install a new four-lane cricket practice facility and light towers at Edward Smith Reserve in Northfield. Fulham Cricket Club will construct a new six-pitch net facility at Collins Reserve, supported by $80,000. Marion Cricket Club has been allocated $50,000 to build a turf wicket and a four-pitch net practice space. Adelaide Lions Cricket Club picks up $64,900 to upgrade practice nets at Pedlar Reserve in Seaton, and Mannum Cricket Club receives $121,200 to build a new clubroom with changerooms, toilets, and a kitchen.
In total, five cricket-focused clubs alone are set to receive $816,100 — almost 15% of the CRSFP pool. The grants come amid a broader $8 million-plus package that includes the Active State Collaboration Program, which supports youth-focused sports initiatives.
Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Emily Bourke said the investment supports the creation of fit-for-purpose spaces while tackling the barriers that prevent participation.
“We’re backing communities to build welcoming, inclusive spaces — whether it’s through irrigation upgrades, changerooms for girls and women, or lights to extend training hours,” she said.
Clubs in Mount Gambier, Kadina, Booleroo Centre, and Streaky Bay also feature heavily in the funding round, which will unlock projects worth over $12 million and support 49 full-time jobs during the build phase.
Adelaide’s Denman Tennis Club will receive $448,600 for resurfacing six courts, a new kitchen, and accessible toilets and changerooms. Club President Ben Perry described the grant as a turning point after decades without upgrades.
“These changes will make a real difference,” said Perry. “They will remove barriers for people with disabilities, provide safer facilities, and finally give our female members appropriate changerooms.”
While tennis and netball clubs are among the major recipients, the spotlight is also on youth engagement. The $2.4 million Active State program is backing initiatives like Future Lifesavers in Whyalla and Murray Bridge, and an Active Youth program in Port Lincoln for disengaged teens.
Rhiannon Pearce, Assistant Minister for Junior Sport Participation, emphasised the need to target kids aged 12–15, a group with falling activity rates during high school transition years.
“As someone who grew up in regional SA, I know how vital local clubs are. They’re where friendships are built and confidence grows,” she said. “It’s great to see clubs now being resourced to welcome everyone — including young people with autism and ADHD.”
A $244,000 allocation will go toward training resources to help clubs better support children with neurodivergence — part of a broader push to build more inclusive sport across the state.
All recipients, from metro hubs like Kensington Gardens to remote areas like Port Kenny, are aligned around one aim — getting more South Australians moving, staying connected, and enjoying sport in better, safer, and fairer conditions.
Cricket Clubs Funded – Snapshot:
City of Port Adelaide Enfield: $500,000 – Cricket practice facility and lights (Northfield)
Fulham Cricket Club: $80,000 – Six-pitch cricket net (Kidman Park)
Marion Cricket Club: $50,000 – Turf block and four-pitch net (Marion)
Adelaide Lions Cricket Club: $64,900 – Cricket net facility (Seaton)
Mannum Cricket Club: $121,200 – Clubrooms including changerooms and toilets (Mannum)
Total cricket allocation: $816,100
Full CRSFP allocation: $5,664,000
Cricket share of CRSFP total: ≈ 14.4%
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