Aboriginal-led organisations in the Mount Druitt electorate can apply for a share of $625,000 to deliver primary prevention initiatives using 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 that encourage positive behavioural change through sport.

The program is open to Aboriginal-led organisations, as well as eligible sporting, recreational and local government organisations that can demonstrate strong partnerships within Aboriginal communities.

It forms part of the NSW Government’s $38 million Strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024–2028. The strategy will provide up to $1 million over two years to establish, expand and strengthen Aboriginal-led primary prevention activities in sport and active recreation, particularly at the grassroots level.

Grants of between $3,000 and $25,000 are available. Organisations may submit multiple applications, but total funding is 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 applicants.

Applications close on Tuesday, 6 October 2026. For further information or to apply, visit the NSW Government grants and funding website.

Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla said sport and active recreation played an important role in the lives of the local First Nations community.

“Delivering Aboriginal-led prevention programs where Aboriginal communities play sport and socialise has the potential to change behaviour and make Mount Druitt a safer place for Aboriginal families,” Mr Atalla said.

“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 Mount Druitt organisations through the application process and ensure Aboriginal-led initiatives are supported to thrive.”

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said sport could play a key role in challenging social 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,” Mr Kamper said.

“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 the program harnessed the power of sport and cultural knowledge by partnering 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 for Aboriginal people to shape and drive safer communities for Aboriginal people, in partnership with government,” Mr Harris said.

“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 NSW Government was working to stop domestic, family and sexual violence before it started.

“Sport has incredible influence in our communities, so the Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program is an important initiative within our primary prevention strategy,” Ms Harrison said.

“We want to see fresh ideas from grassroots organisations for Aboriginal-led prevention programs delivered where Aboriginal communities play sport and socialise. These programs can help 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.”