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$5.5 Million In Grants Are Up For Grabs To Upgrade NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs

14th Jul 2026
Written by:
Eloise Luke
Contributor | Urban List
  • Aerial view of a sandy beach with a group of brightly coloured surf rescue boards lined up on the shore, while a single paddler approaches the beach from the clear turquoise water.

NSW's surf life saving clubs are set for a funding boost, with the state government opening applications for a new $5.5 million grants program aimed at upgrading the facilities that help keep beaches safe.

The 2026 Surf Club Facility Program will offer grants of up to $1 million to support everything from early-stage planning through to major construction projects, with a strong focus on climate resilience and growing community participation.

Here's what to know.

Jump to:

What Is The NSW Surf Club Facility Program?

The Surf Club Facility Program provides funding to help NSW surf clubs upgrade, rebuild and future-proof their facilities.

This year's program will distribute $5.5 million across three funding categories, supporting projects at every stage—from concept design and planning through to construction.

Individual grants of up to $1 million are available.

What Funding Is Available For NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs?

The 2026 funding round is prioritising projects that help surf clubs better withstand extreme weather while making facilities more accessible and welcoming for members and the wider community.

Potential projects include:

  • Upgrading or rebuilding ageing clubhouses
  • Improving accessibility and community facilities
  • Strengthening buildings against storms and coastal weather
  • Planning and design work for future developments.

The funding is intended to help ensure surf clubs can continue supporting volunteers and beachgoers as demand grows.

Who Can Apply For The Surf Club Facility Program?

The program is open to eligible NSW Surf Life Saving clubs. Applications for Category 1 close at 1pm on Monday 17 August 2026, while Categories 2 and 3 close at 1pm on Monday 31 August 2026.

Further information, eligibility requirements and application details are available via the NSW Government grants website.

Image credit: Ain Raadik, Destination NSW | Instagram

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