THE NSW Government will commit more than $3 million over the next two years to partner with sporting organisations to deliver programs that address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence.

The Game on for Change – Preventing Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Through Sport grant program is a whole-of-community approach to addressing domestic, family and sexual violence.

Through the Game on for Change grants, the government, $3.135 million will be provided over two years for new and existing programs that will see the sport and primary prevention sectors unite to deliver cultural change, with sport reaching and influencing many people in the community – as sponsors, players, volunteers, fans and families.

Grants from $15,000 to $450,000 are available to professional sporting organisations, state sporting organisations, community sports clubs, not-for-profit community-based organisations with prevention expertise and higher education institutions.

The Game on for Change program features multiple streams with applications closing February 18, 2026 and, March 4, 2026.

Further information about the program is available at Game on for Change – Preventing Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Through Sport.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said sport is part of the fabric of New South Wales.

“With our sporting organisations, we’re sending a clear message that there is no place for domestic, family or sexual violence,” Mr Kamper said.

“The Game on for Change program uses the power of sport to shift attitudes, drive cultural change, and build a safer New South Wales for women and children.”

NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said sport has incredible influence and reach in the community.

“Sport can be a way to promote positive and healthy behaviours and attitudes,” Ms Harrison said..

“The Game on for Change program is an important initiative of our primary prevention strategy to address the drivers of violence against women where people play and socialise.

“We aim to engage players, coaches, administrators, spectators, communities, and other key stakeholders to change community attitudes that condone or tolerate violence in our community.

NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner and chair of the Multi-Sport Coalition for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, Hannah Tonkin, said sport has a huge impact on Australian society.

“It helps shape community attitudes, values and behaviour, which is why sporting organisations can play a powerful role in preventing domestic, family and sexual violence,” Ms Tonkin said.

“The Game on For Change program will give New South Wales sporting organisations the opportunity to apply for grants to deliver their own initiatives to prevent gendered violence.

“By stepping up to challenge the drivers of gendered violence, sporting organisations have the opportunity to help deliver real, lasting change,” she said.

Further information about the program is available at Game on for Change – Preventing Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Through Sport.