Introduction
Local football clubs across Australia will have the opportunity to share in an $8 million funding boost over four years, as the AFL and Telstra launch Telstra Footy Grants. With a pool of $2 million to be distributed in 2026, eligible regional and metro clubs can apply for grants up to $20,000 – helping strengthen, sustain and grow local footy.
As the foundation of our great game and the heartbeat of communities, investment in local clubs is vital to ensuring everyone has access to play Aussie Rules and experience the health, social and wellbeing benefits that come with belonging to a club.
Extended information on the criteria of this program outlining what can be applied for can be found at our website here: https://play.afl/clubhelp/footy-grants
Key Dates:
Applications will open on Monday 1st December 2025. The following dates will represent a cut off for when applications are considered. For example, if you were to miss Round 1, you can still apply; however, the outcome of your application won't be known until after the Round 2 closure date.
- Round 1: Monday 1st December 2025 to 11:59pm (AEDT) Sunday 1st February 2026
- Round 2: Monday 2nd February to 11:59pm (AEST) Thursday 2nd April 2026
- Round 3: Friday 3rd April to 11:59pm (AEST) Sunday 24th May 2026
- Round 4: Monday 25th May to 5pm (AEST) Thursday 23rd July 2026
Application outcomes will be provided via email and you should expect to receive an update at:
- Round 1: Week of Monday 2nd March 2026
- Round 2: Week of Monday 4th May 2026
- Round 3: Week of Monday 22nd June 2026
- Round 4: Week of Monday 17th August 2026
Please ensure you SAVE as you complete each question. Upon starting the application process, you will be emailed a link to your form to allow you to return at anytime.
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