Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging eligible young athletes across the region to apply for round three of the 2025/26 Local Sporting Champions grant program, which provides financial support to help junior sportspeople compete at elite levels.
Mr Chester said the program plays an important role in helping Gippsland’s emerging athletes pursue their goals by easing the financial pressure associated with travel and competition.
“Competing at a state, national or international level requires enormous dedication from young athletes — and tremendous support from their families,” Chester said.
One of the major barriers to achieving their sporting dreams is the cost of travelling to high-level events, and this program helps reduce that burden.
The Local Sporting Champions program offers grants of $500 to $750 to athletes aged 12 to 18 who have been selected to participate in official state, national or international championship events.
“This is a fantastic initiative that helps young Gippslanders realise their potential and continue striving for excellence in their chosen sport, I encourage all eligible athletes to apply and take advantage of this support,” Chester said.
Applications for round three of the 2025/26 program close January 31, 2026.
