Round two of Telstra Footy Country Grants set to open on Monday

Grassroots footy clubs in search of much-needed funds have a perfect opportunity coming next week. Find out how you can apply.

Essendon Doutta Stars got a grant from the AFL and Telstra in 2024. Picture: Supplied.

Grassroots footy clubs from across Australia will have another chance to apply for much-needed grants heading into next season, thanks to the AFL and Telstra.

The second year of the Telstra Footy Country Grants program will start on Monday December 2, offering clubs from across the country the opportunity to apply for funding, up to $20,000, for much needed projects.

This year the initiative handed out $2m to almost 600 clubs with projects ranging from getting life saving equipment, to starting new girls teams, to installing new infrastructure.

Langwarrin was one of almost 600 clubs to receive help. Picture: Supplied.

The project is part of AFL and Telstra’s $8m commitment to community football with $2m to be handed out each year from 2024 to 2027.

“When we launched Telstra Footy Country Grants this year our aim was to fund as many applications as possible with the $2m to help clubs acquire vital items, aid volunteers and grow their participation,” AFL Executive General Manager of Game Development Rob Auld said.

“To now reflect and see that we’ve been able to help fund everything from lifesaving defibrillators, behind the goal netting, line markers as well as Indigenous and pride guernseys across nearly 600 local clubs is a terrific result.”

The program was also able to help clubs from all walks of life.

Almost 60 per cent of grants were offered to regional clubs with metro clubs making up the rest.

And every state and territory was represented from the Tiwi Bombers in the Northern Territory to Huonville in Tasmania.

“Aiding local footy clubs remains a priority for the AFL as we continue to strengthen the foundation to sustain the future of our game,” Auld added.

“I’d like to thank Telstra for their continual support of local footy clubs and the community, the Advisory Board of the program for their commitment and time as well as our state and territory associations for connecting with clubs to ensure the best outcomes were achieved.”

Head here on Monday, December 2, to apply for the next round.

Originally published as Round two of Telstra Footy Country Grants set to open on Monday