Aboriginal-led organisations in the Electorate of Cessnock can apply for a share of $625,000 for primary prevention initiatives that use sport and active recreation to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV).
The Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program empowers Aboriginal-led organisations and communities to deliver culturally grounded programs to address the drivers of DFSV and effect positive behaviour change through sport.
The program is open to Aboriginal-led organisations and eligible sport, recreation and local government organisations that demonstrate strong partnerships to deliver primary prevention messaging and activities within Aboriginal communities.
The program is part of the NSW Government’s $38 million strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024-2028, which will provide up to $1 million funding over two years to establish, scale up and strengthen Aboriginal-led primary prevention activities in sport and active recreation particularly at a local grassroots level.
Grants from $3,000 – $25,000 are available with organisations able to submit multiple applications and funding capped at $25,000 per organisation.
The Office of Sport has partnered with Aboriginal-owned cultural awareness agency, YarnnUp, to provide culturally safe support to funding applicants.
Applications close on Tuesday, 6 October 2026. For further information and to apply visit the Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program page.
State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:
“Sport and active recreation is a huge part of the lives of our local First Nations community.
“Delivering Aboriginal-led prevention programs where Aboriginal communities play sport and socialise has the potential to change behaviour and make the Electorate of Cessnock a safer place for Aboriginal families.
“We know that navigating Government grant processes can be a barrier for Aboriginal organisations.
“By partnering with YarnnUp, Aboriginal people will be on hand to help organisations through the application process and ensure Aboriginal-led initiatives are supported to thrive.”
Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper said:
“Sport can play a key role in challenging norms and influencing behaviour and perceptions.
“The Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program will support Aboriginal-led organisations and communities to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence through sport programs.
“Importantly, the program recognises the leadership, strengths, culture and knowledge within Aboriginal communities to deliver culturally meaningful and effective prevention programs.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris said:
“This program leverages the power of sport and cultural knowledge to partner with Aboriginal Community Controlled organisations to address the causes of domestic, family and sexual violence.
“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving safer communities for Aboriginal people in partnership with government and the Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program is an excellent example of this.”
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison said:
“The Minns Labor Government is working to stop domestic, family and sexual violence before it starts.
“Sport has incredible influence in our communities, so the Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program is an important initiative of our primary prevention strategy.
“We want to see fresh ideas from grassroots organisations for Aboriginal-led prevention programs delivered where Aboriginal communities play sport and socialise, to change attitudes and behaviours that tolerate gendered violence, while also promoting healthy relationships and masculinity.
“By empowering Aboriginal-led organisations to deliver community-based sport programs that promote safety, respect and inclusion, we can prevent violence and create a safer state for Aboriginal families.”