Grants up to $10,000 to support Victorian fishing clubs and associations to strengthen their membership base, improve facilities, and promote inclusive participation in recreational fishing.
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What is the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant (SFCG)?
The Victorian Government is casting another line of support for the state’s fishing community with the launch of the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant (SFCG) Program 2025–26.
Administered by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) and funded through recreational fishing licence fees, the program supports Victorian fishing clubs and associations to strengthen their membership base, improve facilities, and promote inclusive participation in recreational fishing.
This initiative forms part of the broader Go Fishing and Boating Victoria plan, which aims to grow participation and community connection through fishing.
Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant level of support
- Funding available: Grants of up to $10,000 per project.
- Minimum funding: No stated minimum (projects must demonstrate genuine community benefit).
- Total program funding: Up to $600,000 available statewide.
- Co-contribution: Not mandatory, though applicants are encouraged to provide cash or in-kind contributions (e.g. volunteer labour valued at $40 per hour) to strengthen their application
Funding caps:
- Uniform funding capped at $2,500, provided free to members.
- Fishing equipment funding capped at $2,500, for public education or inclusion programs only, and must remain the property of the club
Project timeline: All projects must be completed within 12 months of receiving funds. Extensions may be granted in extenuating circumstances.
Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant important dates
- Applications close: 30 November 2025
- Project completion: Within 12 months of receiving funding
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant objectives
The Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant Program aims to:
- Strengthen the operations and sustainability of local fishing clubs.
- Support community participation in recreational fishing for people of all ages, genders, and abilities.
- Encourage inclusive fishing opportunities for women, First Nations people, CALD communities, and all-abilities participants.
- Promote social connection, wellbeing, and outdoor activity through fishing.
Projects and expenditure eligible for Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant support
Funding is available for projects that will benefit fishing clubs and their communities, including:
- Fishing tuition or participation events for women, multicultural groups, First Nations people, and people of all abilities.
- Clubroom or facility improvements, such as accessibility upgrades, flooring, air conditioning, kitchens, ramps, or BBQ areas.
- IT upgrades like Wi-Fi installation or software improvements.
- Website development or digital promotion initiatives.
- Member training (e.g. first aid, inclusiveness, leadership).
- Uniforms or branded merchandise to build team identity.
- Open days or “Come and Try” events for the public.
- Guest speaker nights that encourage learning and community engagement.
- Club equipment that benefits all members and remains property of the club.
- Membership drives to attract new participants.
The following items and activities are not eligible for funding:
- Utility bills or rent payments.
- Trips or excursions for existing members.
- Purchase of alcohol.
- Fish stocking.
- Completed or retrospective projects.
- Non-fishing entertainment or commercial events.
- Prizes, giveaways, or fundraising activities.
Other Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant support
Eligible applicants must be:
- Incorporated angling clubs or associations based in Victoria.
- Clubs that can demonstrate financial accountability and adequate insurance coverage.
- Organisations applying for only one project per round.
Clubs must hold public liability insurance and ensure Working with Children Checks are in place for public events.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant assessment criteria
All eligible applications will be assessed by a Victorian Fisheries Authority panel against the following criteria:
1. Alignment with program objectives
- Extent to which the project strengthens the club, increases membership, and promotes participation in fishing.
- Demonstrated community benefit and inclusiveness.
2. Community Impact and Engagement
- Ability to attract and retain new members.
- Outreach to underrepresented groups (e.g. women, CALD, First Nations, all-abilities).
- Contribution to local community wellbeing and recreation.
3. Feasibility and Project Delivery
- Clear and achievable project plan with deliverables within 12 months.
- Demonstrated organisational capacity to manage funds and report outcomes.
- Evidence of sound governance and appropriate risk management (e.g. insurance, compliance).
4. Value for Money and Sustainability
- Effective use of grant funds to achieve long-term benefits for members and the wider community.
- Evidence of additional contributions (cash, in-kind, or volunteer support).
There are no published percentage weightings, but emphasis is placed on community impact, inclusivity, and deliverability.
How do I get the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project/s as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate the following to improve their chances of success:
- How the proposed project will strengthen the club’s operations and community engagement.
- Clear project objectives and measurable outcomes.
- A realistic timeline with milestones achievable within 12 months.
- Evidence of community inclusion, particularly for diverse and underrepresented groups.
- A detailed budget showing how funds will be used and any in-kind or volunteer support.
- Compliance with insurance and governance requirements.
- Plans to promote and acknowledge the Victorian Government’s funding support in accordance with VFA branding guidelines.
Information to prepare for the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant application
Applicants must provide:
- Club name, incorporation number, and ABN (if applicable).
- Contact details and position of the applicant.
- A project title and summary (up to 500 words).
- Breakdown of project costs and proposed use of funds.
- Details of cash or in-kind contributions.
- Supporting material such as quotes, designs, or photos.
- Evidence of insurance and Working with Children compliance (if applicable).
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant
Applications must be completed using the official VFA Application Form.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant resources
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