More than half a million people are registered to participate in community football across junior, youth, senior club footy, AFL Nines, NAB AFL Auskick and the newly introduced, NAB AFL Superkick.
In 2024, registered participation has hit record levels, surpassing the previous high set in 2023. The game can only flourish at the elite level with a strong grassroots foundation and further growth means the game game is on track to hit the stated aim of one million participations by 2033. Such exponential growth brings with it the challenge of providing the facilities we need in the right locations to ensure all Australian's can experience the game.
To meet this demand, our data shows we need access to one new field every week for the next five years.
The Breaking News Ground Program aligns directly to the AFL's Infrastructure Plan Towards 2030 goal to drive innovation and growth by generating new, bold and innovating approaches to venue provision that increase access to football for more people in more locations.
The AFL is seeking proposals from Schools (private and public), Developers, Local Government Authorities. State Government and other private land owners who want to work in partnership with the AFL to support the provision of well positioned, welcoming, accessible, fit for purpose football facilities which create more opportunities for communities to be healthy and active.
Applicants are required to liaise with their respective AFL State / Territory Facilities department to discuss their proposal to ensure eligibility against specific funding program guidelines.
For any enquiries relating to our program or your submission please contact the National Schools Innovative Venue Growth Lead at bnground@afl.com.au.
For project meeting the Breaking New Ground objectives and program criteria, interested applicants may apply for funding support for:
- Project planning and scoping and / or
- Infrastructure delivery
It is a requirement that all infrastructure projects will develop a Partnership Opportunity Plan which includes commitment from the landowner to inform the submission and funding request.
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