Regional sports clubs across Victoria are expanding access for people with disability, backed by a new round of state government funding aimed at strengthening inclusive participation in community sport.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence announced that 89 sports clubs and community organisations in regional Victoria will share in grants of up to $25,000 each under the Regional All Abilities Participation Grants (RAAPG) program. The funding is designed to remove barriers to participation and broaden opportunities both on and off the field.
The grants form part of the Victorian Government’s $40 million All Abilities Sport Fund, which focuses on improving accessibility, equipment, training and program delivery across regional communities.
Spence said the initiative was about ensuring more Victorians with disability can access the physical, social and mental health benefits associated with sport and active recreation.
“We’re delighted to support more programs that open up more all-abilities opportunities for Victorians – as instructors, coaches, volunteers or administrators,” she said.
“This initiative creates inclusive spaces where people with disability can not only participate – but kick start new opportunities to learn and excel in a range of roles in the sports they love.”
Among the largest individual grants, Team Baw Baw Alpine Sports Club received $25,000 to establish Mt Baw Baw’s first dedicated adaptive sport program. The funding will support specialised equipment purchases, instructor training and the introduction of adaptive skiing and snowboarding programs, aimed at making alpine environments more accessible.
In Geelong, the Geelong All-Abilities Sports Club secured $22,000 to purchase inclusive bicycles, allowing people with disability and their families to ride together and access shared outdoor experiences. The initiative responds to growing demand for recreational activities that can be enjoyed across age groups and ability levels.
NeuroThrive Australia, based in Greater Geelong, received more than $24,000 to deliver a program tailored to autistic and ADHD children and their families. Led by neurodivergent specialists, the program combines movement, sensory-friendly play and parent education, reflecting a broader shift towards inclusive and evidence-based approaches in community sport.
Further north-west, Mallee Sports Assembly will direct its $25,000 grant towards the 2026 Mildura Tri-State Games, an annual week-long sporting event for people with disability. Funding will support the appointment of two ambassadors tasked with promoting participation at the Games and strengthening engagement beyond the event itself.
In Ballarat, SalamFest will receive $25,000 to reduce barriers for people with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The funding will support inclusive activities such as yoga sessions, cultural rhythm workshops and movement-based programs designed to encourage participation in a welcoming environment.
The Regional All Abilities Participation Grants program reflects a broader effort by the Victorian Government to strengthen grassroots sport across regional areas. Community sport remains a key driver of social connection and local economic activity, supporting clubs, volunteers, coaches and regional facilities.
By investing in adaptive equipment, specialist training and targeted programs, the Government is seeking to embed inclusion as a standard feature of regional sport rather than a separate offering.
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