Aboriginal-led organisations across NSW are being encouraged to apply for a share of $625,000 in state funding for programs that use sport to help prevent domestic, family and sexual violence.
The Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program supports culturally grounded, community-led initiatives that use sport and active recreation to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence, promote respectful relationships and help build safer communities.
The program forms part of the NSW Government’s $38 million Primary Prevention Strategy 2024-2028, with up to $1 million over two years earmarked to establish, expand and strengthen Aboriginal-led primary prevention initiatives through sport, particularly at the grassroots level.
It is open to Aboriginal-led organisations, as well as eligible sport, recreation and local government organisations that can demonstrate strong partnerships with Aboriginal communities. Grants of between $3,000 and $25,000 are available, and organisations can submit multiple applications, with total funding capped at $25,000 per organisation.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said the program leaned on the strengths of Aboriginal-led organisations already working in their communities.
“This program leverages the power of sport and cultural knowledge to partner with Aboriginal Community Controlled organisations to address the causes of domestic, family and sexual violence,” Mr Harris said.
“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving safer communities for Aboriginal people in partnership with Government and the Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program is an excellent example of this.”
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said the government wanted to see fresh ideas from grassroots organisations.
“We want to see fresh ideas from grassroots organisations for Aboriginal-led prevention programs delivered where Aboriginal communities play sport and socialise, to change attitudes and behaviours that tolerate gendered violence, while also promoting healthy relationships and masculinity,” Ms Harrison said.
The Office of Sport has partnered with Aboriginal-owned cultural awareness agency YarnnUp to provide culturally safe support to organisations through the application process.
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said sport was central to the lives of the region’s First Nations community.
“Sport and active recreation is a huge part of the lives of our local First Nations community,” Ms Saffin said.
“Delivering Aboriginal-led prevention programs where Aboriginal communities play sport and socialise has the potential to change behaviour and make our region a safer place for Aboriginal families.”
Applications close Tuesday 6 October. For more information and to apply, visit www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/aboriginal-sport-for-respect-grant-program.
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