“For every parent or athlete who struggles with the cost of competing, including the purchase of uniforms and equipment or travel expenses associated with competitions, this program can alleviate the burden,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“We have some incredible young athletes on the North Coast, but the reality is we are a regional area and the costs of travel and accommodation for those who compete, coach or umpire at regional, state or national levels can be significant.

“We have young champions in the making across the North Coast; this is a way of helping make dreams come true for young sportsmen and women who may not otherwise be able to afford to travel and compete at high-level events.

“As a Government we want as many young people as possible involved in sport and we plan to nurture that interest by making participation more affordable for parents and young athletes.”

The initiative provides financial assistance for young people aged between 12 and 18 years to help pay for costs associated with competing, coaching or officiating at an official national sporting organisation endorsed state, national or international sporting championship or a School Sport Australia state or national championship.

Grants of $500 are available for successful individual applicants and are allocated three times per year, with applications now open for Round 3. As grant funding is limited, applicants are urged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

For more information about the Federal Government’s Local Sporting Champions Grants program, eligibility requirements and application forms, go to http://www.ausport.gov.au/participating/local_sporting_champions.

Round 3 applications close on February 29.