Sport
28 December, 2025
$4.8m Rugby World Cup grants open
Rugby clubs across The Southern Wire readership areas are being invited to apply for a share of a new $4.8 million funding program
Rugby clubs across The Southern Wire readership areas are being invited to apply for a share of a new $4.8 million funding program aimed at delivering long-term benefits from the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
The NSW Government has opened applications for the NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program, administered by the NSW Office of Sport, following NSW securing hosting rights for matches at the 2027 tournament.
The program forms part of a broader $10 million investment in rugby union linked to the World Cup and is designed to improve local facilities, strengthen player pathways and increase participation across the state.
In the first round of funding, $2.15 million is available, with individual grants ranging from $5,000 to $150,000. Rugby clubs are eligible to apply.
The program places a strong emphasis on projects in regional NSW, with priority given to initiatives that support women and girls, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, people with a disability, First Nations peoples and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Delivery of the program will be undertaken by the NSW Government in collaboration with NSW Rugby Union, ACT & Southern NSW Rugby Union and Rugby Australia.
NSW Office of Sport deputy secretary Adam Berry said ensuring the World Cup left a lasting impact beyond the elite level was a key priority.
“We want to ensure that people in all parts of the state, in particular western Sydney and regional NSW, benefit from NSW hosting games at the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027,” Mr Berry said.
“The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program will achieve that through grants for infrastructure, equipment and participation, regardless of whether you play for a major metropolitan club or a regional side.”
NSW Rugby Union chief executive Peter Murphy said the funding represented a long-term investment in the future of the sport.
“This announcement represents a significant and long-term investment in the future of rugby in New South Wales and the communities that make our game what it is,” Mr Murphy said.
“The program will strengthen the foundations of our sport, improve facilities, expand pathways for young players, accelerate the growth of the women’s game and ensure rugby is accessible and welcoming to everyone.”
Applications for the first round of funding close on Monday, 16 February 2026.
Further information and application details are available here:
https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/nsw-rugby-world-cup-legacy-grant-program
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