South Australia’s beach-based sport and active recreation clubs can now access a share of $500,000 in funding to boost programs and services that keep the community active, healthy and safe along the coast this summer.

Surf lifesaving, sailing and ocean swimming clubs are encouraged to apply for assistance through the Algal Bloom Support Program (ABSP).

Part of the state and federal government’s $102.5 million Algal Bloom Summer Plan, it will assist affected clubs to maintain their programs and events and respond to additional needs that may arise during the summer season.

Funding can be spent on essential costs such as medical and first aid supplies, equipment that assists with program delivery, event costs and to help offset temporary expense shortfalls.

Additionally, projects that promote wellbeing and inclusion, along with other measures that provide safe, high-quality experiences for their members, participants and community, are supported by ABSP funding.

Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Rhiannon Pearce has thanked the workforce and volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to delivering sport and active recreation opportunities across SA beaches.

“The South Australian Government is committed to supporting sport and recreation clubs through the algal bloom and this program delivers important funding to assist those clubs that operate on our beaches and on the water.

Applications close at midday on Wednesday 17 December. For more information and to apply, visit the website.

Also part of the Summer Plan, event organisers in South Australia’s coastal regions can now apply for grants under the new $750,000 Algal Bloom Event Support Fund.

The grants will be available for the purposes of marketing and promotion, as well as audience development initiatives, enhanced programming, and costs directly related to event delivery.

The Fund will support events held from 1 December 2025 to 31 March 2026 in the same postcodes as the Coast is Calling Travel Voucher and Dining Cashback programs.

Grants of up to $20,000 will be made available to existing events in metropolitan and regional coastal areas to stimulate visitation, drive economic recovery, and foster community connection.

Events will need to meet the Fund criteria and may include leisure events, council events and community events.

The Algal Bloom Event Support Fund will be delivered by the South Australian Tourism Commission.

Funding applications will close at 5pm on 1 March 2026 or when funds are exhausted. All applications will be evaluated by an assessment panel against the eligibility criteria. 

For more information and to apply from go to the website.