The Australian Sports Foundation’s FY25 “Giving for Sport” report highlights the growing role of philanthropy in supporting grassroots and community sport across Australia. The report shows that sports fundraising and donations have continued to rise, reflecting increasing reliance on community contributions to sustain clubs, athletes, and sporting programs nationwide.
According to the findings, tens of thousands of donors contributed significant funding during FY25, helping to support a wide range of needs including equipment purchases, facility upgrades, travel costs, and athlete development programs. The report emphasizes that these contributions are essential for keeping community sport accessible, especially as participation costs and operational pressures continue to increase.
The Australian Sports Foundation notes that sports clubs across the country are facing financial strain due to rising expenses and reduced traditional revenue sources. As a result, fundraising has become a critical component of sustaining local sporting ecosystems. The report highlights that community sport is increasingly dependent on donor generosity to maintain participation levels and ensure long-term viability.
Philanthropic giving is also playing a key role in addressing barriers to participation, particularly for groups such as children, women and girls, and underrepresented communities. Many funded projects focus on improving access to sport, supporting inclusive programs, and enhancing grassroots development opportunities across Australia.
Overall, the FY25 report reflects a broader shift in how sport is funded in Australia, with private donations and community giving becoming increasingly important alongside government and institutional support. The Australian Sports Foundation continues to position itself as a key platform enabling tax-deductible giving to sport and helping clubs bridge funding gaps across the sector.
