Rugby World Cup Legacy Program grants open to Northern Rivers organisations

LOCAL communities are set to benefit from a boost to regional rugby union through a $4.8 million NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program.

The program is part of the NSW Government’s $10-million investment in rugby as a result of hosting games at the Men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027.

The $2.15 million first-round pool offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $150,000 and targets projects for women and girls, and people from diverse communities.

Member for Lismore and NSW Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin, said rugby clubs and local councils in the Lismore electorate should apply for grants under the program to improve rugby facilities and infrastructure, improve player pathways and increase participation.

“The Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for local rugby fans to witness the world’s best players on home soil,” Saffin said.

“It’s also a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow and develop the game in the Lismore Electorate.

“I urge local clubs and councils to take the opportunity to apply for grants to improve rugby facilities, infrastructure and player pathways, plus increase participation to support the next generation of Wallabies and Waratahs.”

The NSW Government, in collaboration with NSW Rugby Union, ACT and Southern NSW Rugby Union, and Rugby Australia, will deliver the program.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said ensuring the World Cup event left a legacy at all levels of the sport was a government priority.

“We want to ensure that people in all parts of the state, in particular Western Sydney and regional NSW, benefit from NSW hosting games at the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027,” Kamper said.

Rugby NSW CEO Peter Murphy said the announcement represented a significant and long-term investment in the future of rugby and the communities that made the game what it is.

“The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program will strengthen the foundations of our sport, improving facilities, expanding pathways for young players, accelerating the growth of the women’s game, and ensuring rugby is accessible and welcoming to everyone,” Murphy said.

Applications close Monday, February 16.

For information, visit sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/nsw-rugby-world-cup-legacy-grant-program