Community sports clubs are at the heart of Australian communities. They provide opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, connect with others and build stronger local networks.
Over the years, RESINC has proudly supported dozens of clubs installing solar and batteries using a wide array of local, state, and federal grants.
Now, a new Australian Government initiative could help sporting clubs reduce operating costs, improve sustainability and invest in long-term energy resilience.
The new Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action Program has been announced as part of Australia’s Net Zero Plan and will provide more than $35 million in funding to support community sporting organisations across the country.
At RESINC Solar & Batteries, we’re encouraging sporting clubs to start preparing now so they can maximise their opportunity when applications open.
What Is the Game On Grant?
The Australian Government has committed $35.262 million over three years to support up to 500 community sports clubs through two funding rounds.
The program aims to help clubs:
- Reduce energy bills
- Improve energy efficiency
- Electrify facilities
- Increase climate resilience
- Lower carbon emissions
- Improve long-term financial sustainability
The grant forms part of Australia’s broader climate strategy, which includes a target to reduce emissions by 62-70% below 2005 levels by 2035.
What Could Your Club Use the Funding For?
While final guidelines are still being released, the program is specifically focused on energy efficiency, electrification and climate resilience projects.
Potential upgrades may include:
- Solar power systems
- Solar battery storage
- Energy-efficient lighting upgrades
- Air conditioning upgrades
- Electrification of facilities
- EV charging infrastructure
- Energy monitoring systems
- Building resilience improvements
For many sporting clubs, solar and battery storage are likely to be among the most effective investments available.
By generating and storing their own electricity, clubs can significantly reduce ongoing power costs while improving energy security during peak demand periods.
Why Solar Makes Sense for Sporting Clubs
Many sporting clubs have large clubhouse roofs, canteens, change rooms and facilities that consume significant amounts of electricity.
Common energy expenses include:
- Field lighting
- Clubhouse lighting
- Refrigeration
- Air conditioning
- Kitchen facilities
- Electronic scoreboards
- Function room operations
- Pool pumps and sporting equipment
Solar power can dramatically reduce these costs while helping clubs redirect funds back into facilities, equipment and community programs.
Adding battery storage can further increase savings by allowing clubs to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it during evening training sessions.
Combine the Game On Grant with Other Available Incentives
One of the biggest opportunities for sporting clubs may be the ability to combine funding sources.
Depending on your project, there may be additional federal, state or local government incentives available that could further reduce the upfront investment required.
This may include:
- Solar battery incentives
- Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) incentives
- State-based energy programs
- Local government sustainability grants
- Community infrastructure funding opportunities
Every project is different, which is why obtaining expert advice early is important.
How RESINC Solar & Batteries Can Help
As one of Australia’s most trusted and awarded solar companies, RESINC Solar & Batteries works with organisations across Australia to design energy solutions that deliver genuine long-term value.
Our team can help your sporting club:
- Assess grant suitability
- Identify eligible solar and battery projects
- Prepare energy savings projections
- Develop project budgets
- Maximise available rebates and incentives
- Design the right solar and battery solution
- Coordinate installation and project delivery
Rather than simply installing equipment, we help clubs understand how to maximise the return on every dollar invested.
Start Preparing Before Applications Open
The final Grant Opportunity Guidelines are expected to be released when applications officially open.
With demand expected to be strong and funding limited to approximately 500 clubs nationwide, early preparation could provide a significant advantage.
Now is the ideal time to:
- Review your current electricity costs
- Assess facility energy usage
- Consider future upgrades
- Obtain preliminary solar and battery advice
- Explore available funding opportunities
Speak With RESINC Solar & Batteries
If your sporting club is interested in reducing electricity costs, improving sustainability and preparing for the Game On Grant program, now is the time to start planning.
RESINC Solar & Batteries can help you understand your options, identify available rebates and incentives, and develop a tailored energy solution designed to maximise the benefits of grant funding.
Contact our team today to discuss how your club can make the most of the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action Program and take advantage of Australia’s growing range of clean energy funding opportunities.