Why do we need the Local Sporting Champions program?
The Australian Government recognises that junior sportsmen and women can find it difficult to meet ongoing costs associated with participating in state or national sporting competitions. This program will help provide individuals and teams with the assistance needed to compete at these competitions.
What is the value of grants and how many grants are available?
The Australian Government has allocated $1.6 million annually for the Local Sporting Champions program. Grants of $500 for eligible individuals and $3000 for eligible teams are available to successful applicants.
Who can apply for the Local Sporting Champions program grant?
To be eligible to apply for a Local Sporting Champions grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be between 12 and 18 years of age (inclusive) at the time of the nominated sporting competition;
• Be participating in an official NSO endorsed state or national sporting competition or national school sport competition; and
• Be required to travel greater than 250km, return.
Individuals and teams that receive funding from other government sources will not be eligible to receive funding from the Local Sporting Champions program.
Are grants available retrospectively?
Grants will be available retrospectively for the 2008-09 funding cycle. Applicants who have competed in ASC recognised NSO state or national sporting competitions, or national school sport competitions from 1 July 2008 will be eligible to apply for a grant.
When can people apply for a Local Sporting Champions program grant?
The Local Sporting Champions program will be launched in November 2008. The application process is a rolling process, whereby young people can apply for a grant at any time throughout the year. Grants will be assessed quarterly. Individuals and teams are only eligible to receive one grant per financial year.
Local Sporting Champions program application forms are available from the Australian Sports Commission website www.ausport.gov.au/champions
