Clubs across the region have two fantastic funding opportunities currently available to support community sport and strengthen volunteer involvement.
These grants provide valuable assistance to help clubs enhance operations, support volunteers, and continue delivering positive football experiences within their communities.
Below are two key funding programs now open or available for clubs to explore.
1. Volunteer Grants
Volunteer Grants provide small-scale funding designed to support and strengthen volunteer participation within community organisations. The funding can assist clubs with equipment, training, resources and initiatives that make volunteering easier, safer and more sustainable.
How to Apply
The first step in the process is contacting your local Federal Member of Parliament, as MPs nominate organisations for consideration.
Clubs can find their electorate by visiting the AEC website, click here.
Electorates that cover our Geelong Region clubs include:
- Corio – Richard Marles MP
- Corangamite – Libby Coker MP
- Wannon – Dan Tehan MP
In many cases, application details are available via the MP’s website. If not, clubs are encouraged to contact their office directly and:
- Introduce your club and its role within the community
- Outline how volunteers support your operations
- Explain how funding would benefit volunteers and community participation
- Request guidance on nomination processes, timelines and required documentation
Being prepared with clear examples of community impact will strengthen your request for nomination.
What Can Volunteer Grant Funding Be Used For?
Volunteer Grants are designed to provide practical support that improves the experience of volunteers and helps clubs operate more effectively.
Communication & Administration Support
Funding may assist with:
- Mobile phones and communication devices
- Computers, laptops, tablets or iPads used for club operations
- Communication and administration software
- Audio and visual equipment for online meetings or activities
- Electronic payment devices
- Internet service plans
- Insurance premiums
Supporting Volunteer Activities & Club Operations
Funding may also support:
- Accessibility equipment
- Volunteer screening checks (e.g. background checks)
- Educational and training equipment
- First aid, safety and hygiene supplies
- Event equipment and promotion of volunteering opportunities
- Furniture and office equipment
- Grounds maintenance equipment and tools
- Portable heating or cooling equipment
- Sport and recreation equipment
- Storage solutions
- Volunteer training and development
- Travel and fuel costs for volunteer activities
- Kitchen equipment, whitegoods and appliances
✅ Eligible Items — Quick Overview
In short, Volunteer Grant funding may help clubs cover:
- Technology & communication equipment
- Volunteer training and education
- Safety and first aid equipment
- Club administration tools and software
- Grounds and facility maintenance items
- Sporting and event equipment
- Volunteer recruitment and promotion costs
- Accessibility improvements
- Operational essentials that support volunteer-run activities
These grants can significantly reduce financial pressure on volunteers while improving club operations and community outcomes.
2. Qantas Regional Grants Program
The Qantas Regional Grants Program provides a collective $2 million annually to support regional Australian communities through a combination of:
- Cash funding
- Flights in-kind
- Marketing support
The program aims to strengthen regional organisations, enhance community impact and promote local initiatives.
Eligible charities, clubs and community groups can apply by outlining their project, expected community benefit and funding needs.
Applications close: 10 May 2026
Full details, eligibility criteria and applications are available via the Qantas website, click here.
Support Available
Clubs seeking assistance with funding applications are encouraged to reach out to our Regional Development Coordinator, Josip Zilic.
Josip is available to provide guidance and support to help clubs identify opportunities and strengthen their applications.
Community football thrives because of volunteers. These funding opportunities provide clubs with practical ways to support the people who give their time each week to keep the game running.
FV Geelong encourages all clubs to explore these opportunities and consider how funding could benefit their volunteers and wider football community.
