The Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund, part of the Deputy Premier’s $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, will go towards sports projects that will benefit the whole community, by encouraging participation and developing facilities that will allow the region to host major sporting events.

This means projects that will not only improve the playing experience, but also the fan experience, such as an indoor sports centre, a football field or a multi-purpose complex with change rooms and a cafeteria.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said sport is integral to building a sense of community.

“The NSW Government wants to ensure regional communities are vibrant, strong and cohesive places to live, and sport is central to achieving that,” Mr Barilaro said.

“So many of our sports stars were born and raised in regional NSW, and I want to make sure our country kids continue to have the opportunity and facilities they deserve.

“Sport is also a significant economic driver, attracting investment and creating new jobs.

“Both amateur and professional sport events boost visitation and encourage spending in the local community, which ultimately creates employment and a more vibrant economy.

“In the coming weeks, I will be travelling around regional NSW to explain how the Regional Sport Infrastructure Fund can benefit regional NSW and I look forward to hearing the ideas of local communities, local government and community members,” he said.

Further information and program guidelines are available at www.nsw.gov.au/regionalsportinfrastructure