Sporting Excellence Fund

This program is designed to support athletes from the Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) who have been selected to represent their sport at national or international levels.

The grant aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with high-level competition, enabling athletes to focus on achieving excellence in their sporting endeavours.

Applications accepted from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026 or until funds are exhausted.

Fund amounts allocated in recognition of individual representation and participation at a national or international level are as follows:
• $300 for individuals selected to compete on behalf of Australia at an international competition or equivalent.
• $500 for individuals competing at the Commonwealth Games.
• $800 for individuals competing at the Olympic Games.
There is a total of $4,000 available for the financial year or until funds are exhausted.

The following eligibility criteria applies to the Sporting Excellence Fund:
• The athlete’s permanent residence must be in Port Stephens LGA
• Be selected in competitive sports
• Be selected at national or international levels.
Applicants must be participating as an individual in:
• An official national championship endorsed by the relevant Australian Sports Commission’s (ASC) recognised national sporting organisation (NSO), national sporting organisation for people with disability (NSOD) or a School Sport Australia member body.
• An international competition as a member of an official Australian team, representing an ASC recognised NSO, NSOD or School Sport Australia.
• The Commonwealth or Olympic Games.
The event must be a competition (this does not include tours, coaching, academies, training or friendship games). If you are applying prior to the event, the event must occur within six (6) months of the application submission date.

- Competing on behalf of Australia at an international competition or equivalent 

- Competing at the Commonwealth Games

- Competing at the Olympic games

If you are competing on behalf of Australia at an International level, you will need to align with one of the following categories. Please view the links below. 

Recognised National sporting organisation (NSO) or National sporting organisation for people with disability (NSOD)
www.sportaus.gov.au/australian_sports_directory
School Sport Australia Member Body
www.schoolsportaustralia.edu.au/sports/

Please read the Funding Guidelines prior to completing this form.

If you still have any questions please contact the Vibrant Places team on 02 4988 0255 or email pscgrants@portstephens.nsw.gov.au