The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy
The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Sport
The Albanese Labor Government is investing $50 million over four years to help up to 500 sports clubs take climate action with upgrades like better shade and drainage, batteries and energy upgrades to lower bills and climate-proof their facilities.
From netball in Nerang to footy in Footscray, local sporting clubs are the lifeblood of communities. More than 14 million Australians use community sport facilities across the country.
Sporting clubs are already feeling the impact of climate change, and the recently released National Climate Risk Assessment noted that more frequent and more intense extreme weather events will impact sport and recreation.
That's why we're working with community sporting organisations through a new funding package that will help them upgrade facilities and help everyday Australians understand how they can futureproof local sport. This funding will protect our way of life and make community clubs stronger by helping them take practical action on climate and slash bills for good.
Delivered as part of the Albanese Government's practical climate change plan the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program will also help clubs redirect energy bill savings into equipment and programs for grassroots sports.
Clubs will be able to reinvest the savings from solar and batteries into what matters most to keep grassroots sport thriving - like funding new equipment, girls participation programs and pathways for young athletes and officials.
Grant support for community clubs and partner organisations will be designed to help unlock further opportunities under other Government initiatives, including the Cheaper Home Batteries program and finance from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation.
The Government wants to see the private sector step up and partner in futureproofing community sport -- energy companies, banks, installers and equipment providers can all play a role to multiply the impact of this investment.
The package builds on the Albanese Government's Community Energy Upgrades Fund, which is delivering $100 million for local government facilities, including sport grounds and swimming pools. It also draws inspiration from solutions being led across cricket clubs since 2021 by Australian test Captain Pat Cummins and his not-for-profit Cricket for Climate.
Quote attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen
"Community sport has always inspired Australians to come together and tackle big challenges. Taking action on climate is no different. We need a Team Australia moment, with everyone part of acting and adapting on climate and energy to help meet these challenges head on.
"Australians know what climate change means to our way of life and want their kids to have the same opportunities they've had for healthy, connected lifestyles through sport."
"Upgrading local sporting facilities, whether with new lights so we can play or train more at night, or solar panels that mean more money for equipment rather than bills, helps empower communities to secure what matters and inspire Australians to seize the potential of the energy transformation at home."
Quote attributable to Minister for Sport Anika Wells
"Sport has the power to bring about change across so many facets of our lives, and this investment by the Albanese Government helps clubs upgrade their facilities by taking practical action on climate change.
"Community sport is an important gathering place for so many of us, and we want every Australian to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity. Today's announcement builds on our commitment to grassroots sport, with participation programs including Play Well, Sporting Schools, along with our record commitment to sports programs and facilities for women and girls through Play our Way."
Quote attributable to Australian Test Captain and Founder Cricket for Climate Pat Cummins
"I'm really excited to see the support from the Federal Government. It's going to make a big difference for so many local sporting clubs across the country, helping them stay open, manage energy costs and be more resilient."
"This funding means more play, fewer cancellations, and stronger communities. Clubs are where so many of us grow up, make mates, and stay active."
"With extreme weather hitting harder each year, now's the time to future-proof our clubs with solar, batteries, and all-weather solutions. This is a great example of taking action and what we can achieve when government, communities, and sport all work together."
"This is just the beginning, and we invite Australian business to get involved.".
