The City of Ballarat is inviting community feedback to help shape its next Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (2026–2030). This four-year plan will guide how Council works to make Ballarat a more inclusive, accessible and welcoming community for everyone. The plan aims to improve access, reduce barriers and ensure people living with disability can fully participate and thrive in all aspects of community life.

As part of Swimming Victoria’s upcoming classification weekend for swimmers with disability being held in Geelong, an information session will be delivered for key stakeholders committed to inclusive swimming. Coaches, learn-to-swim providers, schools and allied health professionals all play a vital role in creating meaningful pathways for people with disability to participate and thrive in the sport.

The Australian Sports Commission’s Local Para Champions program provides financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors aged 12-24 participating in state, national or international championships for athletes with a disability. Successful applicants will receive $750-$1000 towards the cost of attending their championships.

The Victorian Government’s Significant Sporting Events Program is now open. The program assists event organisers to enhance the delivery of national or international level sporting events in Victoria. The sport must be recognised by the Australian Sports Commission, and the event must be sanctioned by the recognised national or international sporting body.

The Australian Sports Commission’s Local Sporting Champions program are now open, providing financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors aged 12-18 participating in state, national or international championships. Successful applicants will receive $500-$750 towards the cost of attending their championships.

Community sporting organisations are the backbone of the Central Highlands, often driven by dedicated volunteers who foster participation, connection and pride. Recognising the challenges many face. such as volunteer turnover, limited succession planning and difficulties in attracting diverse leaders, Leading from the Front offers a practical solution. Delivered by Sports Central, this workforce sustainability program strengthens off-field leadership, committees and volunteer structures.

The Emergency Sporting Equipment Grant Program provides funding of up to $1,000 for community sport and active recreation organisations across Victoria to replace or repair essential sport or first aid equipment that has been lost or destroyed because of unpreventable incidents.

The Victorian Government’s Sporting Club Grants Program is now open. This funding helps grassroots clubs and organisations address barriers in participation, develop safe and sustainable practices and build social and active local communities.

The Victorian Government’s Regional All Abilities Participation Grants support clubs and community organisations to enable ongoing, sustainable and meaningful participation for people with disability in regional Victoria. Our team is here to assist with applications, support project development and explore potential partnerships.

Love golf or want to give it a go? Come and join the Special Olympics Ballarat Golf Program, a fun and inclusive program, designed specifically for people with an intellectual disability and/or autism. It’s a fantastic way to learn new skills, stay active, build confidence and make new friends, all in a welcoming and supportive environment.