Disaster affected sport and recreation clubs score welcome relief
Not-for-profit sport and recreation clubs impacted by recent major disasters in Queensland's west, south-east and north are encouraged to apply for recovery grants to help them get back on the park.
Immediate relief up to $5,000 is available through the Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program to help eligible organisations in disaster ravaged areas with clean-up and repairs so they can reopen their doors.
Flood and cyclone affected clubs are encouraged to apply for the grants to re-establish facilities and activities as soon as possible.
This support extends across all activated LGAs in response to the following disaster events:
- Western Queensland Surface Trough and Associated Rainfall and Flooding, commencing 21 March 2025
- Tropical Cyclone Alfred and Associated Severe Weather, 1 - 16 March 2025
- North and Far North Tropical Low, 29 January - 28 February 2025
Queensland Government sport and rec officers are working with local governments and clubs to help identify damage and extend support where required.
With sports and recreation activities playing a vital role in communities, the emergency funding will be a welcome boost for recovery efforts across areas hardest hit by this latest stretch of extreme weather.
At a time of year when many sports are into the swing of a new season, having funding available for minor repairs and clean-up works will be welcome relief to ensure a return to normal scheduling.
The Queensland Reconstruction Authority has also established a $30 million fund under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to repair and rebuild significantly damaged facilities in north and Far North Queensland, and is working to develop a similar program for the south-east.
Clubs looking to check eligibility and apply for the $5,000 Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Grant can visit www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/disaster-recovery.
Grants may be used for things like:
- Replacing damaged equipment
- Payment of services and hire costs
- Purchase of equipment and tools to support clean-up
- Excess coverage for insurance claims
More information is also available through the Queensland Government's regional Sport and Recreation offices: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/office-locations.
Disaster recovery resources targeted to sport and recreation organisations, including practical tips for clean-up and member and stakeholder communications following a severe weather event, are available via ClubIQ: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/club-support/prepare-your-club-for-disasters.