COMMUNITY football clubs across Australia will continue to benefit from vital funding, with the AFL and Telstra announcing a four-year extension to the Telstra Footy Grants program, which will now run until 2031.
Originally launched as a four-year initiative in 2024, the Telstra Footy Grants program sees a $2 million pool of funds distributed each year, with eligible regional and metro clubs able to apply for grants up to $20,000 to strengthen, sustain and grow community footy.
Across the first two years of the program, more than 1,000 clubs have been provided support, delivering $4 million to help community football clubs across Australia overcome the challenges they face.
From new equipment to volunteer support and participation initiatives, the four-year extension will provide a further $8 million in funding through to 2031, bringing the program’s total investment to $16 million.
With a league vision for everyone to love and connect with Australia’s game, continued investment in community football remains critical to ensure everyone has access to play Aussie Rules.
AFL Executive General Manager Customer, Commercial & Technology, Bec Haagsma said:
"As long-time supporters of footy, we'd like to thank Telstra for their continued investment and shared commitment to supporting the clubs and communities who make up the heart of our game," Haagsma said.
"The impact of Telstra Footy Grants has already been significant, with $4 million of funding injected directly back into community football over the past two years.
"Today's extension will now guarantee $16 million of investment across the duration of the program, providing financial support to community clubs so that everyone can love and connect with Australia’s game."
Telstra Executive, Jana Kotatko, said:
"When we launched our Grants program, we hoped it would help local clubs, but the impact has exceeded all of our expectations," Kotatko said.
"Footy is so much more than a sport, and local clubs are the heartbeat of communities across Australia. We've seen how important they are in bringing people together, creating a sense of belonging, teaching kids resilience and showing what it means to be part of a team.
"The difference the Grants have made has been remarkable, and that's why we knew we needed to extend the program. By continuing to support local footy clubs, we hope to help even more people experience the benefits of grassroots sport and to build stronger, more connected communities."
Telstra ambassador and Sydney Swans vice-captain, Isaac Heeney said:
"It's exciting to see the Telstra Footy Grants extended for another four years," Heeney said.
"I've seen the difference the program has made for local clubs, and it's pretty special to know even more footy communities will benefit over the years ahead."
For more information or to apply, visit: play.afl/grantsÂ
