2023–24 Local Sports

Infrastructure Fund

GUIDELINES

Photo credit Yarra Ranges Shire Council

CONTENTS
MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1. THE 2023–24 LOCAL SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1.1 About the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2 Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Outcomes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.4 Investment priorities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.5 Timelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2. ELIGIBILITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.1 Eligible applicants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Eligible applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.3 Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4 Facilities on school land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5 Facilities on Crown land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.6 Types of activities that will not be funded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3. FUNDING DETAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
3.1 Funding Streams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.2 Funding Ratios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.3 In-kind contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

4. FUNDING STREAM DETAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

4.1 Community Facilities Stream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.2 Community Sports Lighting Stream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.3 Planning Stream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

5. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

6. APPLICATION PROCESS AND CLOSING DATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

7. ASSESSMENT PROCESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

8. CONDITIONS THAT APPLY TO FUNDING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

8.1 Grant Agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
8.2 Acknowledging the Victorian Government’s support and promoting success . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
8.3 Payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
8.4 Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
9. RESOURCES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
9.1 Supporting documentation, forms and templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
9.2 Universal Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
9.3 Environmentally Sustainable Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
9.4 Female Friendly Sport Infrastructure Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9.5 Gender Impact Assessments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9.6 Healthy Choices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9.7 Fair Play Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9.8 Cultural Heritage Management Plans (Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018) . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9.9 Future Proofing Community Sport and Recreation Facilities: A Road Map
for Climate Change Management for the Sport and Recreation Facilities Sector . . . . . . . . . . 26

10. APPENDIX 1 – GLOSSARY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

 Photo credit Maroondah City Council

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

To encourage even more Victorians to get active The Value of Community Sport and Active Recreation
and participate in sport and active recreation, the Infrastructure Report (2020), commissioned by
Victorian Government is supporting communities Sport and Recreation Victoria put an annual value
by investing in local sport and active recreation of $7 billion on the economic, social and health
infrastructure. benefits of community sport and active recreation
infrastructure in Victoria.
As the Minister for Community Sport, I’m pleased to
announce applications are now open for the 2023–24 These investments support local economies by
Local Sports Infrastructure Fund – backed by funding creating economic activity and hundreds of jobs
from the state budget. for planners, architects, engineers, project managers,
builders, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, facility
With overwhelming demand for infrastructure, the fund
managers and operational staff. Sourcing local
supports projects across 3 funding streams including
materials will also enable many more Victorian
grants of up to $300,000 for Community Facilities,
businesses to thrive.
up to $250,000 for Community Sports Lighting,
and up to $40,000 for Planning. I look forward to seeing new and exciting projects
supported through the 2023–24 Local Sports
Better infrastructure will allow sports clubs, facility
Infrastructure Fund.
managers and community organisations to
accommodate more people, create more participation
opportunities and draw more interest, creating a real
buzz in the community and boosting local economies.
That’s why I urge Local Government Authorities to work
with their communities to apply for funding and kick
start new projects that can make a real difference
to people’s lives.
The 2023–24 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund builds
on more than $1.9 billion invested by the Victorian THE HON ROS SPENCE MP
Government in community sport and active recreation Minister for Community Sport
infrastructure since 2014.
1.
THE 2023–24 LOCAL SPORTS
INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Photo credit Yarra Ranges Shire Council

The LSIF aims to achieve this by:

1.1 ABOUT THE • investing in high-quality community sport and active
LOCAL SPORTS recreation infrastructure to facilitate appropriate
participation opportunities
INFRASTRUCTURE • investing in infrastructure that extends capacity
FUND and encourages flexible, multi-use, shared and
integrated services and facilities
The Local Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSIF) • supporting forward planning for sport and active
is a statewide competitive Victorian Government recreation infrastructure that responds to changing
investment program that funds the development of participation preferences
high-quality, accessible community sport and active • advancing inclusive and accessible development
recreation infrastructure. by ensuring investments are universally designed,
environmentally sustainable and strategically
The LSIF promotes partnerships between the Victorian
planned
Government, Local Government Authorities (LGAs),
Alpine Resorts Victoria (ARV), sport leagues and • encouraging collaboration with sporting clubs,
associations, sporting clubs, schools, educational leagues and associations, state sporting
institutions, and community organisations. associations, schools, service providers, facility
managers and community organisations to
The LSIF is underpinned by the Department of Jobs, deliver outcomes.
Skills, Industry and Regions’ (DJSIR) priorities of
driving a strong and resilient economy that benefits all Rates of participation in sport and active recreation
Victorians – by creating more opportunities for people are well below the state average for many groups
through jobs and skills, supporting businesses and of Victorians. Those that participate less include:
industries to grow and prosper, and building vibrant • women and girls
communities and regions. The LSIF is administered by • Aboriginal Victorians
Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV) on behalf of DJSIR.
• culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD)
communities

1.2 OBJECTIVES • disengaged young people

• LGBTIQ+ people

Active, healthy and thriving communities need high- • people with a disability
quality, accessible, well-designed and sustainable • seniors (people aged 60 years and over)
infrastructure to conduct sport and active recreation • socio-economically disadvantaged communities.
activities. Developing infrastructure that supports
individuals and communities who participate less, The Victorian Government is committed to supporting
while driving local economic activity, are priorities greater opportunities for all Victorians, and the 2023–24
for the Victorian Government. LSIF will prioritise projects that support participation
by these groups.
1.3 OUTCOMES
The LSIF reflects the Victorian Government’s commitment to securing the many benefits of participating in
sport and active recreation. This includes supporting Victorians, particularly those individuals and communities
who participate less to achieve better health, wellbeing, social, and economic outcomes through the construction,
programming and activation of community sport and active recreation infrastructure.
The LSIF will invest in proposals that can demonstrate commitment to the following outcomes:
• more participation opportunities made available through the development of new or upgraded existing multi-
use, sport, and active recreation infrastructure
• more equitable and inclusive participation of women and girls in local sport by investing in well-designed
and high-quality facilities
• Improved participation of those who participate less in community sport and recreation, particularly those
from communities experiencing long-term socio-economic disadvantage, growth and regional areas and areas
affected by natural disaster
• improved sustainable design and planning to ensure infrastructure investment is building better and more
liveable communities
• increased local economic activity through the planning, building, management, and activation of redeveloped
or new infrastructure.

1.4 INVESTMENT PRIORITIES

Priority will be given to projects that:
• support communities in areas of need that have experienced natural disasters, such as flood, bushfires
and drought, or communities experiencing strong population growth or significant change in circumstances
(for example, economic challenges)
• support communities experiencing socio-economic disadvantage particularly projects that support suburbs
and towns within the 2 most disadvantaged deciles in Victoria as per the Australian Bureau of Statistics Index
of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage, 2021
• demonstrate strong participation outcomes for those individuals or communities who participate less in sport
and active recreation, particularly those that support participation by women and girls (as per Section 1.2)
• demonstrate multi-use, shared and integrated facilities including those on school land that can ensure long-
term community access. Please see Section 2.4 for information regarding facilities on school land
• demonstrate economic uplift in the form of job creation during construction and operation, non-government
investment and local/regional event attraction.

1.5 TIMELINES
APPLICATIONS OPEN APPLICATIONS CLOSE OUTCOMES GRANT AGREEMENTS
ANNOUNCED EXECUTED

October 2023 13th December 2023 From April 2024 May/June 2024
2.
ELIGIBILITY
Image credit Mildura Rural City Council

Stages of a larger facility development may seek

2.1 ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS support from the LSIF, providing the stage addresses
the assessment criteria and meets all other eligibility
Only Victorian LGAs and ARV are eligible to apply requirements.
to the LSIF.
Only eligible applications will be assessed
LGAs/ARV must discuss potential project/s with their and considered for funding by SRV.
SRV representatives to receive feedback on eligible
Please refer to the relevant funding stream in Section 4
projects before submitting their application/s.
for further details about application requirements.
Sport and recreation clubs, sporting associations
Applications submitted after the closing date will
and leagues, educational institutions, not-for-profit
not be considered eligible and will not be assessed,
community organisations, businesses and individuals
unless an extension has been requested and approved
cannot directly apply to the LSIF.
in writing by SRV before the closing date, which will
Local clubs and organisations are advised to contact only be granted under exceptional circumstances
their LGA or ARV if they wish to express interest (for example, significant technology disruptions
and seek support from the LSIF. or impacts from natural disasters).

2.2 ELIGIBLE 2.3 PERFORMANCE

APPLICATIONS SRV will also consider an applicant’s past performance
and the organisation’s capacity to deliver projects on-
To be eligible for funding through the LSIF, applications time based on recent performance or current project
submitted by LGAs/ARV must: management capacity. Compliance with past Grant
• relate to a project that is eligible under the relevant Agreements, the number of overdue milestones for
funding stream existing projects, and current projects with unresolved
• relate to a project that will be finished within budget shortfalls will also be considered.
24 months of executing a Grant Agreement with
DJSIR (for successful projects)
• meet all funding limits and funding ratios
for the relevant funding stream
• adequately demonstrate how the project meets
the funding stream objectives and assessment
criteria. Claims made against each criterion must
be substantiated with evidence
• exclude activities listed in Section 2.6
• be submitted (including all supporting
documentation) by 5:00 pm on Wednesday
13 December 2023.
 • Buildings or equipment considered temporary
2.4 FACILITIES ON or not permanent in nature or intended use.
SCHOOL LAND • Metal halide lighting (only LED lighting systems will
be funded) across the Community Sports Lighting
and Community Facilities Streams, including as part
LGAs/ARV are eligible to apply to the LSIF for projects
of large projects.
located on school land.
• Upgrading or redeveloping kitchens or public toilet
For projects on school land, applicants must provide: facilities, except as part of a larger project that
• A Community Joint Use Proposal (to the Department meets the objectives of the relevant LSIF stream.
of Education) which is completed by the applicant • Requests for ongoing operational costs such as,
and the school. Schools can access this document but not limited to, salaries, electricity, water, asset
from the Department of Education website. maintenance and other utilities.
Applicants must allow sufficient time to complete
• Routine or cyclical maintenance works.
this document and obtain the necessary written
endorsement from the Department of Education. • Purchasing or maintaining recreation,
entertainment, sporting, lifesaving or any other
• A letter from the Department of Education
equipment (except as part of facility fit out).
central office that endorses the project.
Applicants requesting this letter should email • Projects previously funded by SRV, unless applicants
[email protected] can demonstrate additional or new uses resulting
in increased participation/programming outcomes.
• Projects in non-government schools are also eligible
for funding through LGAs/ARV and require similar • Projects that do not meet relevant sport or
demonstration of commitment from both parties Australian Standards (for example, lighting projects).
to ensure long-term community access is achieved Facilities that do not comply with the relevant sport
under agreed terms. standard must seek exemption from the relevant
sporting organisation and supply appropriate
evidence to be supported by the LSIF.
2.5 FACILITIES ON • The replacement of like-for-like surfaces (for
example, synthetic surface replaced by a similar
CROWN LAND synthetic surface) are ineligible for funding.
To be eligible for funding the application will need
LGAs/ARV are eligible to apply to the LSIF for projects to demonstrate that additional uses are proposed
located on Crown land. and/or a multi-purpose element is being introduced.
Exceptional circumstances may be considered
Partnerships between LGAs/ARV, committees of where significant safety or compliance issues are
management and other land managers for projects evident, and an activity will not continue to be
that support community sport and active recreation conducted as a result.
outcomes on Crown land are encouraged.
• Repair of facilities damaged by vandalism, fire or
other natural disasters where the damage can be
fully covered by insurance. The LSIF may consider
2.6 TYPES OF ACTIVITIES supporting applications where the scope includes
THAT WILL NOT elements in addition to the facility damaged.
• In general, areas designated as licensed areas within
BE FUNDED a proposed facility will not be eligible for funding.
DJSIR may consider applications where a restricted
• Facilities where little or no public access is available. club license is proposed or in place, provided
• The purchase of land (in general, the land on that the restricted license does not interfere with
which the facility development is proposed will be the facility’s other amenities or services, such
municipal property, a Crown reserve, land owned as childcare or access by young people.
by a public authority, private land with public access • Projects where contributions from funding
rights or land held for public purposes by trustees). partners are not confirmed in writing and by bank
• Requests for retrospective funding, where projects statement/s or underwritten by the applicant.
have started construction or are finished prior to • Tenant clubs that have failed to resolve a breach
the execution of a Grant Agreement (construction of the Fair Play Code.
includes, but is not limited to demolition, site
• Applications where the project beneficiary receives
clearing, earthworks, building works and any form
revenue directly from electronic gaming machines
of early works).
are not eligible.
3.
FUNDING DETAILS
Photo by Copper Door Studio courtesy of Bass Coast Shire Council

3.1 FUNDING STREAMS

Funding from the LSIF is available under the following streams:

FUNDING STREAM COMMUNITY FACILITIES COMMUNITY PLANNING

SPORTS LIGHTING

Number of applications Unlimited up to $300,000 Unlimited up to $250,000 LGAs: Up to 1 Facility

per LGA/ARV per LGA/ARV or 1 Municipal

ARV: Up to 5 (any
combination of facility
and/or municipal plans)

Maximum total grant Up to $300,000 Up to $250,000 Up to $40,000

amount per applicant

Project types eligible • Pavilions • New sports lighting FACILITY

for funding • Change rooms installations • Facility planning
• Courts • Replacement of activities including
non-LED lamps with Schematic plans,
• Sports fields
LED sports lighting Quantity Surveyor
• Playspaces estimates and Geo-
• New active recreation
• Active recreation lighting installations tech investigations
facilities
MUNICIPAL
• Outdoor aquatic
facilities • Recreation and
leisure strategies
• BMX, Skate Parks
• Facility feasibility
• Scoreboards
studies
• Fixed equipment
• Master planning
• Multi-sport training for 3+ sites.
facilities
• Sports lighting will only
be eligible through the
Community Facilities
stream if it forms part
of a larger project.
3.2 FUNDING RATIOS
Funding ratios apply to the LSIF and are outlined in the table below.
Applicants must confirm matched funding consistent with the funding ratios. Ratios are calculated using total
project cost (exclusive of GST).
Applications may include project management fees of up to 7.5% of the total project cost (exclusive of GST).
Applications must include contingency that is a minimum 10% of the total project value (exclusive of GST).
Applicants cannot use other State Government funding, such as funding from the Growing Suburbs Fund,
as part of their local contribution throughout the delivery of the project.
Local contributions may comprise of funding from other organisations including LGAs/ARV, sport and recreation
clubs, state sporting associations, schools, educational institutions, Federal Government, community organisations
or in-kind support (limits apply to in-kind support).

LGA / ARV COMMUNITY FACILITIES COMMUNITY PLANNING

SPORTS LIGHTING

Metropolitan Melbourne SRV = $1 SRV = $1 SRV = $1

Local = $1 Local = $1 Local = $1

Metropolitan Interface* SRV = $1.5 SRV = $1.5 SRV = $1.5

Local = $1 Local = $1 Local = $1

Ballarat SRV = $1.5 SRV = $1.5 SRV = $1.5

Greater Bendigo Local = $1 Local = $1 Local = $1
Greater Geelong

Regional and SRV = $3 SRV = $3 SRV = $3

Rural Victoria Local = $1 Local = $1 Local = $1

* Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mornington Peninsula, Nillumbik, Whittlesea, Wyndham and Yarra Ranges

Funding ratios for each funding stream consider the differing capacity of LGA/ARV types across Victoria.

3.3 IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS

An in-kind contribution is a contribution of a good or service other than money. Examples include voluntary labour,
donated goods and donated services.
Applications that include in-kind contributions must provide:
• a completed in-kind and voluntary support form
• a letter from the LGA/ARV CEO that approves and underwrites any in-kind contributions.
4.
FUNDING STREAM DETAILS

4.1 COMMUNITY 4.1.3 Eligible projects

FACILITIES STREAM The types of projects that are eligible include:
• New and/or redeveloped sports fields
and sports courts
4.1.1 Stream objectives • multi-sport training facilities that are
publicly accessible
The stream supports the development of a broad • active recreation spaces such as multi-
range of new or redevelopment of existing community activity facilities, outdoor exercise equipment
sport and active recreation infrastructure ensuring all or redevelopment of indoor spaces, such
infrastructure is high-quality, multi-use and accessible as appropriate flooring for fitness classes
to all. • projects that result in improved facility carrying
capacity, such as new drainage, irrigation
and grass installations
4.1.2 Funding details
• playspaces, skate parks, pump tracks, BMX tracks,
LGAs/ARV can submit an unlimited number of and outdoor splash parks
applications up to a maximum total request amount • installation of new LED or redeveloping lighting
of $300,000, and no application can exceed the that benefits community sport and active recreation
maximum individual grant amount of $300,000. spaces when forming part of a larger project.
Replacement of non-LED lamps with LED Lighting
Each project requires a separate application under
Infrastructure to enable lighting standards to be
this stream. Bundled projects will be deemed ineligible.
met will be permitted
Outdoor aquatic facility projects must allocate a • redevelopment/upgrade to outdoor aquatic
minimum of 25% of the requested grant amount facilities that improve accessibility and participation
to components that will improve energy or water such as leisure water, change rooms and energy
efficiency and environmental sustainability. or water efficiency upgrades, for example, heating
This must be demonstrated with a specific ESD budget of water spaces
in the application. • re-purposing indoor sport or recreation spaces
to create new participation opportunities
Applicants must respond to assessment criteria for
the Community Facilities stream outlined in Section • redeveloping or complementing sports facilities
4.1.5 and provide all the mandatory supporting to include new active recreation infrastructure
documentation in Section 5. The quality of supporting • accessibility improvements for facilities where
documentation provided will also be considered Senior Victorians participate such as ramps
during assessment. and change rooms
Applications can claim in-kind expenses up to a • LED electronic scoreboards and fixed equipment
maximum of 50% of the total project cost for each including but not limited to sports field behind
application. LGAs/ARV must approve and underwrite goal safety netting and player/coaches’ boxes.
any in-kind contribution from third parties.
Applications must demonstrate how projects will 4.1.4 Stream priorities
finish construction within 24 months of the executed
Grant Agreement, by providing a detailed Project Priority will be given to projects benefitting population
Management Framework and other supporting groups that participate less in sport and active
documents to evidence project readiness. recreation (as per Section 1.2).

4.1.5 Assessment criteria

CRITERIA WEIGHTING QUESTIONS

Project Need 40% 1. Why is the project needed?

and Readiness 2. Describe the project scope, including all components.
3. What project planning has been done to date? Outline what steps
will be taken to finish the works within 24 months.

Project 40% 4. This question does not apply to Scoreboards and Fixed Equipment projects.
Outcomes 4a. Explain how the project will:
– increase participation and/or support existing participation
in community sport and active recreation, including achievement
of multi-use outcomes
– improve participation for those individuals and communities
that participate less in community sport and active recreation
(as per Section 1.2)
– demonstrate implementation of Universal Design principles
and ESD initiatives.

This question applies to Scoreboards and Fixed Equipment projects only.

4b. Explain how the project will:
– support volunteer efforts, participant safety, participant
or visitor experiences
– support under-represented groups and/or
disadvantaged communities.

Consultation 20% 5. Detail:

and Engagement • the consultation and engagement that has occurred with
the community and other stakeholders for the project
• any further consultation and engagement that will occur
for the project.

Evidence must be provided of community consultation and its findings

and/or outcomes where there is any impact of the proposed project
on residential or community amenity.

Evidence must include:

• how the community has been consulted/informed about the
proposed project (for example, on site consultation, letter box drop,
social media posts)
• community consultation findings and outcomes of any engagement
(community consultation report, summary of resident feedback,
recent masterplan).

A further guidance note related to this requirement is available at:

sport.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0027/176832/Community-
Consultation-and-amenity-impacts-October-2021.pdf
4.2 COMMUNITY SPORTS LIGHTING STREAM

4.2.1 Stream Objectives • new, redeveloped or additional lighting to extend

availability and capacity of active recreation
This stream supports the installation of LED sports facilities
lighting infrastructure that increases facility capacity • projects that also provide active recreation benefits
and participation opportunities. by facilitating use of sports facilities outside of
formal sport usage or lighting adjacent spaces to
facilitate active recreation usage by the community.
4.2.2 Funding Details Priority will be given to sports lighting applications
that also provide a confirmed active recreation benefit
LGAs/ARV can submit an unlimited number
through improved facility availability, scheduling, public
of applications up to a maximum total amount
access, and policy development.
of $250,000.
Applications must demonstrate how projects will
Each project requires a separate application under
finish construction within 24 months of the executed
this stream. Bundled projects will be deemed ineligible.
Grant Agreement, by providing a detailed Project
Applicants must respond to assessment criteria Management Framework and other supporting
for the Community Sports Lighting Stream outlined documents to evidence project readiness.
in Section 4.2.5 and provide all the mandatory
supporting documentation listed in Section 5.
The quality of supporting documentation provided 4.2.4 Stream Priorities
will also be considered during assessment.
Priority will be given to applications that clearly
Applications can claim in-kind expenses up to
demonstrate a commitment to lighting that
a maximum of 50% of the total project cost for each
supports community sport and active recreation
application. LGAs/ARV must approve and underwrite
usage. For example, extending lighting hours beyond
any in-kind contribution from third parties for each
training sessions or on days where training is not held,
applicable application.
for broader community and active recreation use.

4.2.3 Eligible Projects

Funding can only be sought for LED lighting
infrastructure through this stream.
The types of projects that are eligible include:
• new lighting that provides capacity for sports fields,
sports courts or playing areas to host activities
• redeveloped or additional lighting to extend
capacity (usage times and coverage) of sports fields,
sports courts or playing areas
• replacement of non-LED lamps with LED Lighting to
enable lighting standards to be met. Should existing
lighting poles and arms be retained, a report from
an engineer or other suitable expert confirming that
they are structurally sound must be provided
4.2.5 Assessment Criteria

CRITERIA WEIGHTING QUESTIONS

Project Need 50% 1. Why is the project needed?

and Readiness 2. Describe the project scope, including all components.
3. What project planning has been done to date. Outline what steps
will be taken to finish works within 24 months.

Project 30% 4. Explain how the project will:

Outcomes • Increase participation and/or support existing participation
in community sport
• Increase participation and/or support existing participation
in active recreation
• Improve participation for those individuals and communities
that participate less in community sport and active recreation
(as per Section 1.2)
• Demonstrate implementation of Universal Design principles
and ESD initiatives.

Community 20% 5. Detail:

and Stakeholder • The consultation / engagement that has occurred with the community
Engagement and other stakeholders for the project
• Any further consultation and engagement that will occur for the project.

Evidence must be provided of community consultation and its findings

and/or outcomes where there is any impact of the proposed project
on residential or community amenity.

Evidence must include:

• How the community has been consulted/informed about the proposed
project (for example, on site consultation, letter box drop, social
media posts)
• Community consultation findings and outcomes of any engagement
(community consultation report, summary of resident feedback,
recent masterplan).

A further guidance note related to this requirement is available at:

sport.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0027/176832/Community-
Consultation-and-amenity-impacts-October-2021.pdf
4.3 PLANNING STREAM

4.3.1 Stream Objectives

The stream provides support to undertake a range of specific facility and strategic planning projects that
contribute to infrastructure readiness and/or the long-term direction of facility and open space. These projects
are independent, consultative and improve sport and active recreation coordination to meet demand.

4.3.2 Funding Details

LGAs can submit a maximum of one application. This may be one Facility or one Municipal Planning project.
ARV may submit up to five planning applications. This may be any combination of Facility or Municipal Planning
projects and each project must be submitted in a separate application.
Applicants must respond to relevant assessment criteria for the Planning stream outlined in Section 4.3.5
and provide all the mandatory documentation listed in Section 5. The quality of supporting documentation
provided will also be considered during assessment.

4.3.3 Eligible Projects

PLANNING TYPES OF ELIGIBLE PROJECTS MAXIMUM TYPES OF PROJECTS

PROJECT GRANT NOT ELIGIBLE

Facility Planning Single site facility planning only Up to $40,000 Does not include other
• Facility planning activities supporting pre-planning documents
project readiness. This may include (for example, Cultural
Designs (minimum schematic) and/ Heritage Management
or Quantity Surveyor and/or Technical Plan, Facility Asset Audits)
or Specialised Reports (for example, or specific facility business
Geotech, Turf analysis, Sustainability case, advocacy documents
Report, Accessibility report) or management plans.
• Proposed facilities should be
strategically significant and
evidenced by master plans or
strategic plans.

Municipal • Strategic Planning for specific facility Up to $40,000 Single site master plans
Planning type/s such as playspaces, aquatic
facilities, indoor stadiums, etc.
• Master planning across 3 or more sites
• Infrastructure and participation
strategies for specific sports and/or
active recreation activities
• Feasibility studies for one or more
significant projects.

Applications must demonstrate how projects will be finished within 24 months of an executed Grant Agreement
through a detailed Project Management Framework and other supporting documents evidencing project
readiness. The Project Management Framework should also indicate the steps required for authorisation
of the final plan supported through the funding.
4.3.4 Stream Priorities
Priority will be given to planning projects benefitting those individuals and communities who participate less,
particularly women and girls (as per Section 1.2).

4.3.5 Assessment Criteria

CRITERIA WEIGHTING QUESTIONS

Project Need 50% 1. Why is the planning project needed?

and Readiness • Facility Planning projects: will need to address how the proposed
facility addresses a gap in single or multi-use infrastructure provision
and the planning supports project readiness.
• Confirm the project scope can be delivered within budget
and the programs timeframe.

Project 30% 2. How will the planning project result in infrastructure delivery, system
Outcomes improvements, investment prioritisation, policy, management, or
programmatic changes that improve the health, social and economic
wellbeing of the community?
NB: Facility Planning applications will specifically need to identify how
the proposed works will develop documentation to ensure infrastructure
project readiness.

3. Explain how participation of those individuals and communities who

participate less will be benefit through the completed planning project

Consultation and 20% 4. Detail:

Engagement • The consultation / engagement that has occurred with the community
and other stakeholders for the project
• Any further consultation and engagement that will occur for the project.
• Facility Planning projects: will need to detail all relevant consultation
in the Project Management Framework including for individuals
and communities who participate less.
• Municipal Planning projects: will need to detail consultation and
engagement in the draft project brief methodology. This should include
reference to those individuals and communities who participate less,
stakeholders and project partners.
5.
SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTATION
Photo by Copper Door Studio courtesy of Bass Coast Shire Council

The table below outlines the mandatory and desired supporting documentation for each funding stream. Please
submit all documentation with your application to ensure eligibility and demonstrate project readiness. Desired
supporting documentation is not a requirement however it will further demonstrate project readiness, if applicable.
The quality of the documentation will be assessed in conjunction with LGAs/ARV responses to the assessment
criteria for the funding stream. Refer to Section 6 for instructions about how to submit supporting documentation
for your application.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PLANNING

FACILITIES SPORTS LIGHTING

Project Management Framework Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

Site specific plan / aerial map clearly showing Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory for
the location of proposed facilities. Master Plans only

Site specific schematic developed with Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable

stakeholder input including clear dimensions,
measurements and scale. The plans should
support compliance against relevant State
Sporting Association Facility Guidelines. (Not
applicable for modular construction projects).

Note: High level concept plans, hand drawn

plans, generic plans or plans from previous
projects will not be accepted.

Scoreboards and Fixed Equipment projects

should provide a minimum of clear product
specifications and a concept plan.

For prefabricated/modular construction Mandatory Not applicable Not applicable

projects: Detailed area schedule. if applicable
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PLANNING
FACILITIES SPORTS LIGHTING

Lighting plans including lux charts that are Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable
site specific (where lighting is requested if applicable
in the project scope).

Where a project is proposing to retain existing

lighting poles, a report from an engineer or
other suitable expert evidencing that these
poles and arms are structurally sound must
be provided.

Project costings: Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

• If total project cost is $1 million or over
(excluding GST): Quantity survey, tender
price or independent qualified expert
report (no more than 6 months old).
• If total project cost is under $1 million
(excluding GST): Quotes or internal cost
estimates (no more than 6 months old).

Evidence confirming funding required to finish Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

the project:
• Council resolution (preferred for LGAs/ARV)
or Letter from CEO confirming funding
amount requested from SRV and applicant’s
funding commitment to the project.
Note: SRV requires LGAs/ARV to confirm
their commitment to underwrite cost
escalations to deliver the scope outlined
in the application. This provides further
confidence that the project can proceed.
• where funding is from another government
department, evidence of this funding
via letter or funding agreement must
be provided
• where funding from clubs/organisations
is indicated:
– a letter from that organisation’s
authorised officer, stating the funding
amount committed
– current bank statement/s
demonstrating the funding amount
is held by the organisation.

In-kind and voluntary labour support form Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable
if applicable if applicable

Schedule of Use Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable

except for active
recreation projects

Fair Play Code Form for Tenants from all Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable
clubs and/or associations that are tenants except for active
of the facility and benefiting from the project. recreation projects
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PLANNING
FACILITIES SPORTS LIGHTING

Letters of support from organisations that Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

clearly indicate how the group is involved
with or benefits from the project.

Evidence of community and stakeholder Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable

consultation where there is any impact
of the proposed project on residential
or community amenity.

Evidence must include:

• how the community has been consulted/
informed about the proposed project
(for example, on site consultation, letter
box drop, social media posts)
• community consultation findings and
outcomes of any engagement (community
consultation report, summary of resident
feedback, recent master plan).

For projects on private land: A legally binding Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable
land-use agreement. if applicable if applicable

For projects on school land: Mandatory Mandatory Not applicable

• Signed Joint Use Agreement, or a if applicable if applicable
Community Joint Use Proposal to enter
into a Community Joint Use Agreement
• letter from the Department of
Education central office that indicates
endorsement of the project. Applicants
requesting this letter should email
[email protected]

Gender Impact Assessment Desired Desired Desired

Project Governance Framework Desired Desired Mandatory

Business or feasibility planning documents Desired Desired Not applicable

Environmentally Sustainable Design report(s) Desired Desired Not applicable

and associated budget

Facility Management Pan Desired Desired Not applicable

Soil/Geotechnical assessments Desired Desired Not applicable

Access audit Desired Desired Not applicable

Comprehensive draft project brief and/or Not applicable Not applicable Mandatory
request for quote and/or project proposal.
6.
APPLICATION PROCESS
AND CLOSING DATE

STEP ACTION REQUIRED

1. Confirm eligibility Confirm you are an eligible applicant and meet other eligibility requirements
(Guidelines Section 2).

Confirm your project is eligible under a Local Sports Infrastructure Fund

funding stream.

Confirm grant amount sought is within the SRV funding limits (Guidelines Section 3.1).

Confirm the funding ratio for the relevant stream (Guidelines Section 3.2).

2. Contact Sport LGAs/ARV must discuss project ideas with their SRV representative/s prior to applying.
and Recreation
Victoria (SRV) LGAs/ARV will be provided with:
• high-level design feedback including alignment with relevant sporting guidelines
• guidance on the development of proposals that have merit, that align with
the LSIF objectives and that are ready to proceed.

Applicants should seek independent advice before signing a Grant Agreement.

3. Prepare Application LGAs/ARV to prepare applications by addressing all assessment criteria and
and Supporting submitting all mandatory supporting documents for the relevant stream.
Documents
The preparation and submission of applications are at the cost of the applicant.

4. Submit application Eligible applicants must complete the application form (including responses
by closing date to the assessment criteria for the relevant stream) via the SRV website:
sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/our-grants/local-sports-infrastructure-fund
by 5:00 pm on Wednesday 13 December 2023.

An application must address all assessment criteria as per the relevant stream.
Claims made against each criterion must be substantiated with evidence.
STEP ACTION REQUIRED

5. Submit supporting Email all supporting documents to [email protected] by 5:00 pm

documents by on Wednesday 13 December 2023. Please ensure all supporting documents
closing date are clearly named (for example, Plans – Project Name, Costs – Project Name)

Zip all supporting documents into one compressed folder. Please see instructions
below on how to zip files into a compressed folder.

Quote your project name in the subject line of your email.

If documentation is not provided at the time of application SRV reserves the right
to deem the application ineligible.

Please email [email protected] if you experience any issues with emailing your
supporting documentation.

Compressing files into a compressed folder: Select all files using your mouse,
then right click, select Send to and then select Compressed (zipped) folder.
This will prompt a Save window allowing you to save all selected files into one
compressed folder.

The size limit of an email varies between 20mb to 30mb. If your documents combined
exceed this, you will need to split them into separate compressed folders and email
them separately (for example, Part 1 – Project Name, Part 2 – Project Name).
7.
ASSESSMENT PROCESS
Photo credit Darebin City Council

Only eligible applications submitted by eligible LGA/ARV performance and the organisation’s
applicants will be assessed and considered for capacity to deliver projects on time will be considered.
funding by SRV. Please refer to Section 2 for eligibility Compliance with past Grant Agreements and
requirements and Section 6 for details about the the number and duration of overdue milestones
application process. (including outcome reports) for existing projects
will also be considered, along with live projects
SRV reserves the right to not assess an application
with significant budget shortfalls.
should insufficient information be provided, including
responses to assessment criteria and mandatory Decisions regarding funding by the Minister
supporting documentation. for Community Sport are final and no further
correspondence shall be entered into regarding
SRV reserves the right to negotiate a lower than
such decisions.
requested funding amount for submitted applications.
LGAs/ARV are invited to seek feedback from SRV
Applications will be considered against the assessment
on unsuccessful applications.
criteria by SRV staff and then reviewed by a Moderation
Panel. The Moderation Panel will also consider
the Investment Priorities outlined at Section 1.4
and in each stream before making recommendations
to the Minister. Consideration will also be given to
ensuring an equitable distribution of funding across
Victoria, including across rural, regional, interface/
growth and metropolitan communities.
8.
CONDITIONS THAT
APPLY TO FUNDING
City of Greater Dandenong

An LGA/ARV Officer must be designated to manage

8.1 GRANT AGREEMENTS the project and provide information to DJSIR according
to the following key reporting requirements:
Successful applicants must enter a Grant Agreement • a Project Management Framework must be
with DJSIR by May/June 2024 with initial project completed and submitted for all applications
payments made in the 2023–24 financial year.
• LGAs/ARV must secure SRV’s endorsement of
The Grant Agreement will include reference key documents such as schematic plans and
to the following: architectural/planning briefs prior to works
• the facility tenant club/s are expected to adhere commencing. Projects must not start or be tendered
to the Fair Play Code or related state sporting until endorsement is provided. SRV may not make
association Code of Conduct. milestone payments if endorsement is not secured
More information can be found at in a timely manner
sport.vic.gov.au/publications-and-resources/ • LGAs/ARV must provide project acquittal
community-sport-resources/fair-play-code documentation as required
• recipients may seek timing and/or scope variations • LGAs/ARV are expected to guarantee the cash
for funded projects. Consideration of variations flow payments towards works where a community
may lead to changes in deliverables, milestones, organisation is providing funding contributions
grant amount and payments for a project
• LGAs/ARV must inform the participating • LGAs/ARV must contribute information on activity
organisation/s, where applicable, of all funding outcomes for use in outcomes reporting, program
arrangements and obligations in relation to the evaluation reviews or DJSIR publications, 12 months
grant allocation. This includes ensuring the funded after project acquittal.
project does not start prior to the execution
of the Grant Agreement A participation plan may be required for some
applications funded. This will form part of the Grant
• acknowledgement and Ministerial event
Agreement. This will include details on how groups
requirements.
that participate less will be engaged and their
participation facilitated.
8.2 ACKNOWLEDGING 8.4 PRIVACY
THE VICTORIAN DJSIR is committed to protecting your privacy.
GOVERNMENT’S Any personal information about you or a third party

SUPPORT AND in your application will be collected for the purposes

of administering your grant application and informing
PROMOTING SUCCESS the public of successful applications.
To be able to administer your grant application
Successful applicants are required to acknowledge effectively and efficiently, we may need to disclose
the Victorian Government’s support through the your personal information to State and Commonwealth
2023–24 LSIF. Acknowledgement guidelines form part Government departments and external experts, such
of the Grant Agreement and include the requirement as members of assessment panels, for the purposes
that all activities acknowledge Victorian Government of assessment, consultation, and reporting. If there
support through logo presentation on any activity- is an intention to include personal information about
related publications, media releases, social media third parties in your application, please ensure they
posts, and promotional material, and/or placing are aware of, and consent to the contents of this
a Victorian Government endorsed sign at the site privacy statement.
of infrastructure activities. Any personal information about you or a third party
Details of requirements for funded projects are will be collected, held, managed, used, disclosed
available in the Sport and Recreation Victoria: or transferred in accordance with the provisions
Infrastructure Grants Acknowledgement and Publicity of the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic)
Guidelines. and other applicable laws.

Successful applicants may be required to contribute DJSIR is committed to protecting the privacy of
information on activity outcomes for use in program personal information. Enquiries about access to
evaluation reviews or DJSIRs marketing materials. personal information, or for other concerns regarding
the privacy of personal information, can be emailed
to DJSIR’s Privacy Unit at [email protected].
8.3 PAYMENTS DJSIR’s privacy policy is also available by contacting
DJSIR’s Privacy Unit.

Payments will be structured with up to 90% paid

upon execution of a Grant Agreement and generally
10% paid upon final acquittal.
Payments will be made conditional upon:
• the Grant Agreement having been executed
by both parties
• milestones having been achieved to DJSIRs
satisfaction including provision of required/
requested information and reports to the
satisfaction of the department
• other terms and conditions of funding continue
to be met.
Payments advanced prior to completion are subject
to refund if the Project is not performed in accordance
with the Grant Agreement.
9.
RESOURCES AND
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Photo credit Plan Group (Geelong) Pty Ltd

SRV has consolidated several helpful guidelines, tools

and resources to assist with project and application 9.2 UNIVERSAL DESIGN
development that can be found on the SRV website
sport.vic.gov.au/publications-and-resources The concept of Universal Design is to make the built
environment more usable to as many people as
possible, at little or no additional cost. SRV’s Design
9.1 SUPPORTING for Everyone Guide incorporates the Universal Design
principles approach to best practice facility design
DOCUMENTATION, sport.vic.gov.au/publications-and-resources/design-

FORMS AND everyone-guide

TEMPLATES
9.3 ENVIRONMENTALLY
Templates, forms and factsheets to support
applications can be found on the SRV website.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
These include but are not limited to: All projects are encouraged to consider
Schedule of Use Environmentally Sustainable Design. This must
be demonstrated with a specific Environmentally
Project Management Framework Sustainable Design budget in the application.
Project Governance Framework It is good practice to incorporate Environmentally
Sustainable Design initiatives in all projects
Fair Play Code Form for Tenants where possible.
For more information and copy of these forms A fact sheet on Environmentally Sustainable Design
and templates please visit: sport.vic.gov.au/grants- Guidelines is available.
and-funding/funded-project-information-forms-and-
templates
9.4 FEMALE 9.8 CULTURAL HERITAGE
FRIENDLY SPORT MANAGEMENT PLANS
INFRASTRUCTURE (ABORIGINAL
GUIDELINES HERITAGE
The Female Friendly Sport Infrastructure Guidelines
REGULATIONS 2018)
provide information and advice on how to deliver
more gender equitable environments. The Guidelines This tool is used and completed to determine
have relevance to all funding streams. if a Cultural Heritage Management Plan is required
for the project: firstpeoplesrelations.vic.gov.au/cultural-
heritage-management-plans

9.5 GENDER IMPACT

ASSESSMENTS 9.9 FUTURE PROOFING
The Gender Equality Act 2020 requires certain
COMMUNITY SPORT
organisations, including Local Government Authorities, AND RECREATION
to do Gender Impact Assessments (GIAs) so that all
new policies, programs and services and those up FACILITIES: A
for review, that directly and significantly impact the
public, benefit all Victorians. Further information to
ROAD MAP FOR
help understand if a GIA is required, can be found at CLIMATE CHANGE
www.genderequalitycommission.vic.gov.au/gender-
impact-assessments. MANAGEMENT
FOR THE SPORT
9.6 HEALTHY CHOICES AND RECREATION
FACILITIES SECTOR
Healthy Choices is a framework for improving
availability and promotion of healthier foods and The guide is designed to support community
drinks in community settings. Healthy Choices is part sports clubs in understanding their impact on the
of the Victorian Government’s commitment to promote environment and to empower, equip and motivate
healthy food and drink options in a range of public them to take action and change behaviours within
settings including sport and recreation. Sport and their clubs. sportsenvironmentalliance.org/resources/
recreation organisations can use the framework guide-to-future-proof-sport-recreation
to provide consistent health promoting messages.

9.7 FAIR PLAY CODE

All facility tenant club(s) are expected to adhere
to the Fair Play Code or related state sporting
association Code of Conduct.
10.
APPENDIX 1 – GLOSSARY
Photo credit Indigo Shire Council

TERM DEFINITION

Access audit An access audit is an assessment that rates a building for useability and accessibility
for a wide range of users, including people with a disability. It identifies barriers or
potential barriers to people with a disability accessing a building and using services
inside and around the building.

Commencement The undertaking of any project activities that contribute to the physical construction
of Works of new infrastructure or upgrades, improvements, refurbishment of existing
infrastructure as outlined in the application and supporting information. This includes,
but is not limited to, site clearing, earthworks, building works and any form of early works.

Concept Plan A concept plan serves as a starting point in the site development process.

It provides preliminary drawings that convey the concept of the project

but with insufficient detail to provide a basis for project costing.

Geotechnical Report A geotechnical report is a site analysis undertaken by a geotechnical engineer.

The document communicates ground conditions including soil, rock and groundwater.

Lux Charts/ Detailed plans that outline the lux (illumination) that will be exhibited across the court/
Lighting Plans field/pitch. These requirements are sport specific.

Participation Participation is defined as engaging, coaching, officiating or volunteering in a sport

or active recreation activity.

Participation Plan A document populated prior to project finish demonstrating how participants,
including under-represented groups will be engaged and their participation facilitated.

Quantity Surveyor A Quantity Surveyor report is a cost plan estimating construction costs completed by
(QS) Report a qualified Quantity Surveyor and based on plans that are at least at a schematic level.

Schematic Plan Refers to scaled and labelled drawings produced by a professional designer or architect
of an agreed development option. These plans are used to identify the project scope
in sufficient detail to enable accurate project costings.
These guidelines are subject to changes
at the discretion of the Minister for
Community Sport.
Authorised and published by the Victorian
Government, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne.
© State of Victoria, Department of Jobs,
Skills, Industry and Regions. September 2023
Available at Sport and Recreation
Victoria’s website

DJSIR14147_1023