Football Australia has announced the 2025/26 recipients of the Growing Football Community Grants, generously supported by CommBank, to help community clubs across the nation further support women and girls in football.
The Growing Football Community Grant Program provides targeted assistance to clubs and associations to boost female participation in the game. The program enhances the experience of new and returning players, strengthens the education and development of community coaches, and fosters inclusive, safe environments that encourage long-term engagement.
Since launching in 2023, the initiative has now delivered three rounds of community grants, supporting 297 clubs nationwide – including 93 across regional and remote areas – demonstrating Football Australia’s commitment to expanding access and opportunity for women and girls at every level.
This year’s recipients will use their funding to deliver programs that attract, support and retain female participants, including “come and try” days, female-only training sessions, subsidised registration fees, and female-fit uniforms.
Grants will also support the next generation of female coaches, referees and leaders through mentoring and education programs designed to empower women and girls on and off the pitch.
Among this year’s grant recipients are several Hellenic heritage clubs, including:
- Sydney Olympic Football Club Limited (Football NSW)
- Olympic FC (Football Queensland)
- S.C. Corinthians Football Incorporated (Football Queensland)
These clubs will use their grants to create welcoming, inclusive environments that continue the proud tradition of community football within Australia’s multicultural landscape.
This sustained investment contributes to Football Australia and CommBank’s shared goal of supporting 50,000 female participants by 2026.
Football Australia Interim Chief Executive Officer, Heather Garriock, said, “We’re incredibly proud to see the Growing Football Fund continuing to make such a meaningful impact at the community level. These grants are not just about financial support – they’re about empowering clubs to create environments where women and girls feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to stay in the game.”
Commonwealth Bank Group Executive, Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Monique Macleod, said, “We’re proud to support grassroots football through the Growing Football Fund. This fund is all about giving more communities the chance to get involved, have a kick, and build a brighter future through football.”
