Six local football clubs are among 42 around the state to benefit from almost $2 million of funding through the new South Australian Football Facilities Fund.

The clubs represent 17 per cent of football clubs in SA, made up of 28 metropolitan/Greater Adelaide and 14 regional projects.

This is the first round of grants allocated under the new funding program, a collaboration between the state government, the AFL and SANFL.

The remaining $6 million in the pool of funding will be allocated over the next two years, with the next round of funding expected to open in August 2024.

Funding is available to Australian Rules footy clubs, local councils, umpire associations and schools or tertiary institutions.

The grants will support key infrastructure projects at community clubs:

• City of Onkaparinga – Lighting - $75,000
• Kingscote Football Club - Goal Posts/Backing Nets - $8,286.37
• McLaren Districts Football Club – Lighting - $75,000
• Onkaparinga Valley Football Club – Player & Umpire changerooms and amenities - $150,000
• Port Noarlunga Football & Sports Club – Scoreboard $25,000
• Victor Harbor Football Club - Goal post/backing nets - $12,820

Premier Peter Malinauskas says the Gather Round celebration of football will again deliver a significant economic dividend for the state.

“But since the beginning, we’ve been determined to deliver something more – a lasting legacy to the social and sporting fabric of South Australia.

“The South Australian Football Facilities Fund is doing just that, delivering better facilities for women, men, girls and boys in community sporting clubs right across our state.

“I thank the AFL and SANFL for working in partnership with us to deliver these benefits.

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon says it’s important the Gather Round initiative extends beyond the fixture and has a long-term impact on footy around the state.

“As we strive towards one million participants by 2033 we know we need to continue to invest in local clubs and their facilities to ensure we’re providing the best experience and environment for players, coaches, volunteers and umpires.”

SANFL CEO Darren Chandler says improved infrastructure, lighting and oval surfaces will unlock more capacity at existing venues, increasing oval access to support the growing number of participants, in particular female players and umpires.

“From SANFL clubs to local grassroots community clubs, the fund will enhance the capacity of facilities and, importantly, create welcoming and inclusive environments for everyone participating in our game.”

The full list of grant recipients in round one of the SA Football Facilities Fund, can be viewed on the SANFL website.