Game On: New Funding to Help Community Sports Clubs Tackle Climate Change
Image Credit: Emile-Victor Portenart
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport; and The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy
The Australian Government has announced a major investment in grassroots sport with the launch of the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program. This initiative will deliver $50 million over four years to support up to 500 community sporting clubs across Australia in taking practical climate action.
Local clubs will be able to access funding for upgrades such as improved shade and drainage, solar panels, battery storage, and energy-efficient systems. These enhancements aim to reduce energy bills, improve climate resilience, and ensure facilities remain safe and accessible in the face of increasingly extreme weather events.
With over 14 million Australians using community sport facilities, the program is designed to strengthen the role of sport in local communities while helping clubs redirect savings into essential areas like equipment, participation programs for girls, and development pathways for young athletes and officials.
The initiative complements existing government efforts, including the $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, and aligns with broader climate and energy goals. It also encourages private sector involvement, inviting energy companies, banks, and equipment providers to partner in futureproofing community sport.
Inspired by successful grassroots climate initiatives such as Cricket for Climate, the program represents a significant step towards empowering communities to adapt to climate challenges while keeping sport thriving at the local level.
