Mid-Season Boost For Country Footy And Netball

Labor is backing country football and netball clubs with sporting upgrades to keep players on the field.

Minister Spence today announced seven community sports facilities will share in more than $1.45 million from the latest round of the 2026-27 Country Football and Netball Program.

Projects include:

• $250,000 for Laharum Demons Football Netball Club (Laharum Recreation Reserve) — upgrade their oval lighting to competition-standard 100 lux LED.
• $222,000 for Wonthaggi Power Football Netball Club and Wonthaggi & District Netball Association (Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve) — installing 200 lux court lighting.
• $100,000 for Terang Mortlake Bloods Football Club (Terang Recreation Reserve) — installing a fully automatic irrigation system.

Delivered in partnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria, the Program has now invested more than $44 million across 600 country football and netball infrastructure projects.

The Allan Labor Government's 2026/27 Budget is providing $24 million to support the development of high-quality, accessible community sports infrastructure across the state.

For latest information about the program and successful grant recipients visit sport.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence

"Country football and netball are the heartbeat of regional communities — and every club deserves a ground they're proud of."

"Better facilities mean more kids on the field, more volunteers, bigger crowds and a real boost for local towns."

Quotes attributable to AFL Venue and Government Partnerships Manager – VIC, Jessie Doull

“Football and netball clubs are the heartbeat of so many regional communities.”

“AFL Victoria thanks the Victorian Government for its ongoing support of the Country Football and Netball Program, which has allowed clubs across Regional Victoria to benefit from new or upgrade facilities."

Quotes attributable to CEO of Netball Victoria Andrea Pearman

"Netball remains at the heart of communities across regional Victoria and quality facilities are essential to ensure clubs remain strong and sustainable.”

“Netball Victoria acknowledges the Victorian Government’s ongoing support through the Country Football and Netball Program, helping communities invest in infrastructure that enhances participation, inclusion and future growth.”