The NSW Government has committed more than $3 million over the next two years to partner with sporting organisations to deliver programs that address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence.
The Game on for Change – Preventing Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV) Through Sport Grant Program is the result of $38 million funding delivered under the 2024/25 Budget to roll out primary prevention activities across the state.
Last year, the NSW Government launched the State’s first standalone Strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024-2028 which aims to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence by working with communities, schools, workplaces and sporting clubs and local organisations.
“Sport has incredible influence and reach in our community and can be a way to promote positive and healthy behaviours and attitudes,” said NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison.
“The Game on for Change Program is an important initiative of our primary prevention strategy to address the drivers of violence against women where people play and socialise.
“We aim to engage players, coaches, administrators, spectators, communities, and other key stakeholders to change community attitudes that condone or tolerate violence in our community.
“The NSW Government is creating a safer state and stopping the violence before it starts is how we work towards eliminating domestic, family and sexual violence.”
Through the Game on for Change grants, the Government is seeking innovative ideas using sport to address gendered violence and promote equality.
Grants from $15,000-$450,000 are available to professional sporting organisations, State Sporting Organisations, community sports clubs, not-for-profit community-based organisations with prevention expertise and higher education institutions.
“Sport has a huge impact on Australian society. It helps shape community attitudes, values and behaviour, which is why sporting organisations can play a powerful role in preventing domestic, family and sexual violence,” said NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner and Chair of the Multi-Sport Coalition for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, Hannah Tonkin.
“The Game on For Change program will give NSW sporting organisations the opportunity to apply for grants to deliver their own initiatives to prevent gendered violence. As we approach the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, I urge sporting organisations to consider how they can use their unique influence to help create a safer community. By stepping up to challenge the drivers of gendered violence, sporting organisations have the opportunity to help deliver real, lasting change.”
The Game on for Change Program features multiple streams with applications closing 18 February 2026 and 4 March 2026. Further information on the Program is available at: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/game-on-for-change.
