Up to $50,000 to enhance the sustainability and accessibility of tennis venues across New South Wales by supporting small to medium-sized facility upgrades or enhancements.
Current status of program
Opening Soon
The 2025 Round will open on Monday 30 June at 9am.
To register your interest in seeking our assistance with applying, please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Facility Enhancement Fund (FEF)?
The Facility Enhancement Fund (FEF) is a funding initiative by Tennis NSW, designed to stimulate investment in community tennis facilities across New South Wales. Returning in 2025, the program will invest in small to medium-sized venue upgrades that enhance the accessibility, sustainability, and growth of tennis.
Projects supported through the FEF will contribute to increased participation, improved playing environments, and equitable access—helping communities enjoy tennis in upgraded, modern spaces.
Two streams available:
- Stream 1: Main round with confirmed co-contributions
- Stream 2: In-principle funding for projects yet to secure full funding (invitation only)
See the guidelines for more information about the streams available.
Facility Enhancement Fund level of support
- Minimum grant amount: $2,500
- Maximum grant amount: $50,000
- Funding ratio: Up to 25% of the total project value
- Typical project range: Between $10,000 and $250,000
Co-contribution required: Yes. Applicants must secure the remaining 75% of project funding through a combination of direct contributions, partnered funding (e.g., council, landowner, government grants), or eligible in-kind support.
Hardship Clause: Eligible applicants experiencing financial hardship or located in disadvantaged or disaster-impacted communities may request up to 50% of the total project value. Justification must be clearly provided.
Facility Enhancement Fund important dates
- Applications open: Monday 30 June at 9am
- Applications close: Monday 4 August 2025, 5pm
- Notification of Outcomes: From Monday 22 September 2025
- Project Commencement: From October 2025 (post-funding agreement)
- Project Completion: Within 18 months of funding agreement execution
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Facility Enhancement Fund objectives
The program aims to:
- Increase community participation in tennis
- Enhance the quality and experience of playing environments
- Support a broader range of tennis activities
- Improve environmental and venue sustainability
- Address access and participation barriers, especially for women, girls, and diverse communities
Projects eligible for Facility Enhancement Fund support
To be considered, projects must align with FEF’s objectives. Examples include:
- Construction or upgrade of tennis courts (e.g., resurfacing, lighting, drainage)
- Clubhouse and amenity upgrades (e.g., shade, change rooms, toilets, kitchens)
- Accessibility improvements (e.g., walkways, ramps)
- Safety and security upgrades (e.g., fencing, CCTV)
- Environmental sustainability (e.g., LED lighting, solar, irrigation)
- Digital court access hardware and integrated lighting solutions
Ineligible expenditure includes:
- Projects not primarily for tennis
- Retrospective or incomplete projects
- Maintenance, minor refurbishments, or operational costs
- Portable or non-fixed equipment (e.g. nets, signage, hitting walls)
- Costs related to development approval or application preparation
- Works not considered capital improvements or not fit-for-purpose
- Purchase of land, vehicles, office equipment, or hospitality expenses
- Staff wages, insurance, and rent
See the guidelines for full details of projects eligible for FEF support.
Other Facility Enhancement Fund important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Facility Enhancement Fund support
Applicants must either own or manage the venue and demonstrate active engagement with Tennis NSW. Eligible organisations include:
- NSW-based incorporated tennis clubs and associations
- Local councils affiliated with Tennis NSW
- Public park administrators
- Schools and universities offering public tennis programs
- Accredited coaching businesses or venue managers under lease/service agreement
Ineligible organisations include:
- Individuals or unincorporated bodies
- Non-affiliated entities
- P&Cs, TAFEs, childcare centres, PCYCs, YMCAs, and scouts
- Parks committees or organisations not based at a specific location
See the guidelines for more details about organisational requirements.
Facility Enhancement Fund assessment criteria
The FEF is a competitive program, with applications evaluated in three stages: eligibility check, merit assessment, and final panel review.
Merit assessment is weighted as follows:
- Project Scope and Objectives – 20%
- Project Need and Strategic Justification – 30%
- Project Budget and Value – 30%
- Organisation Capacity, Deliverability, and Readiness – 20%
All projects must meet minimum criteria and show clear alignment with FEF objectives. Applications for larger funding amounts (e.g. $30,000–$50,000) are expected to provide more detailed justification and documentation.
How do I get the Facility Enhancement Fund?
To get started:
- Check your eligibility and partnership options
- Read the full guidelines and sample funding agreement
- Engage with your Tennis NSW Development Officer
- Use the Project Ready Toolkit and complete your project plan
- Apply via the SmartyGrants online platform
- Submit all supporting documents by the due date
Information to prepare for the Facility Enhancement Fund application
To strengthen your application:
- Finalised scope of works and costings
- Confirmed co-funding sources and in-kind contributions
- Development approvals or statements confirming they’re not required
- Venue tenure agreements or letters of landowner support
- Participation data and evidence of community impact
- Supporting letters from councils, partners, and stakeholders
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the Facility Enhancement Fund
Applications must be submitted via the SmartyGrants platform.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Facility Enhancement Fund resources
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