Funding is available via the Grassroot Cricket Fund and the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund.
The Grassroots Cricket Fund is a partnership between Australian Cricketers’ Association and Cricket Australia with elite players putting money into it.
Australian cricketer Josh Hazlewood said the opportunity to leave a tangible legacy to community cricket is important to all players.
‘‘The players are passionate about giving back to the game that has given us so much,’’ he said.
‘‘There’s a significant need for investment in grassroots cricket, especially for those communities doing it tough at the moment.
‘‘If we can make the experience of playing cricket better for all cricketers it will go a long way to benefit the game of community cricket right through to those playing at the highest level.’’
The fund offers up to $2500 for equipment such as training and maintenance equipment.
If clubs have a larger project in mind, they can apply for funding from the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF).
Cricket Australia introduced the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund in August 2018 and it’s currently accepting applications from clubs.
The ACIF offers three categories:
■Community Cricket Infrastructure, Minor: $1000 to $10000;
■Community Cricket Infrastructure, Major: $10000 to $50000; and
■Strategic Infrastructure Grant: $50000+.
The ACIF will fund up 50 per cent of a project’s total cost.
The money can be used to upgrade playing areas, change facilities or amenities that encourage participation in cricket.
Large projects will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Member for Euroa and Deputy Leader of The Nationals Steph Ryan is encouraging local cricket clubs to submit an application to the Grassroots Cricket Fund and Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund, which is also open to councils.
‘‘The Grassroots Cricket Fund is open to clubs situated only in regional and rural areas, with a focus on supporting those in drought-impacted areas, while the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund is a larger stream for major projects,’’ Ms Ryan said.
‘‘Clubs do a great job in raising funds to put back into their facilities through sponsorships, donations and raffles, but these two completely new grant streams could be game-changers and significantly benefit and support cricketers and volunteers in our region. I encourage all local cricket clubs to consider lodging an application.’’
For more information and to apply for Grassroots Cricket Fund visit: grassrootscricketfund.com.au
For more information and to apply for the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund visit: cricketvictoria.com.au/grants/
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