Getting a disc golf project off the ground often comes down to finding the right funding. This page covers ADG’s own grants program, the external funding bodies most likely to support disc golf initiatives, and practical advice on making a strong application.
ADG Grants Program
Apply for an ADG Grant
ADG’s grants program provides funding to support affiliated clubs and community disc golf initiatives across Australia. Grants can support course development, equipment purchases, event delivery, and community growth projects.
View the Grants Program →
Letters of support from ADG
Affiliated clubs and ADG members can request a letter of support from ADG to accompany an external grant application. A letter from the national peak body can strengthen applications to councils, state government, or national funding bodies.
To request one, use the contact form and include the grant you’re applying for, your deadline, and a brief description of your project. Allow up to two weeks, though we usually turn these around faster.
External funding sources
Disc golf is well positioned to attract community sporting grants because it genuinely ticks a lot of boxes: low cost, accessible, open to all ages, low impact on land. The key is knowing which doors to knock on and how to frame your project for each one.
Local and regional councils
Most councils have community grants, sports development funds, or parks and recreation budgets. Course installation projects in particular tend to attract council interest because the infrastructure stays in the community permanently.
State government sporting bodies
State sport and recreation departments often fund equipment, coaching development, and participation programs. Sport Australia also runs national programs worth exploring.
Public health funding bodies
Disc golf’s low barrier to entry makes it attractive for active ageing, mental health, and community wellbeing programs. Look to Primary Health Networks, state health departments, and community health organisations.
Disability and inclusion funding
Disc golf is genuinely accessible to people with a wide range of physical abilities. Funding bodies focused on disability sport and inclusion can be worth exploring for the right projects.
Multicultural and diversity programs
State multicultural affairs bodies and community diversity programs sometimes fund sport as a vehicle for social connection. If your project targets a specific community, this angle is worth exploring.
Community foundations and trusts
Local community foundations, service clubs (Rotary, Lions), and regional trusts often support grassroots sporting initiatives with smaller but accessible grants. Don’t overlook them.
Framing your project
The strongest grant applications connect your project to outcomes the funder cares about. Disc golf has a lot of genuine strengths to draw on, the trick is matching the right angle to the right funder. Consider leading with:
Active ageing
Mental health & wellbeing
Low-cost participation
Physical activity for all ages
Community connection
Disability inclusion
Environmental low impact
Youth development
Gender equity
Regional & rural access
Permanent community infrastructure
Volunteer-led sport
ADG’s Why Disc Golf page is a useful starting point for articulating the sport’s community value. Feel free to draw on it when writing your application.
Writing a strong application
1
Read the funder’s priorities carefully
Grant applications succeed when they speak the funder’s language. If their priority is physical activity for older adults, lead with that – not the sport itself. Disc golf is the vehicle; the outcome is what matters to them.
2
Be specific about what you’re asking for
Vague applications rarely succeed. Know exactly what the funding will cover (equipment, installation, event costs, marketing) and be able to show a simple budget that adds up.
3
Show community need and reach
Who will benefit, and how many people? Funders want to know their money will have an impact. If you have numbers from a come-and-try event, participation data, or a waitlist of interested players, use them.
4
Demonstrate sustainability
Funders are wary of one-off projects that disappear. Explain how your club or initiative will continue beyond the grant period whether through membership, events, or ongoing community partnerships.
5
Use supporting materials
A letter of support from ADG, photos from past events, or a council endorsement can all strengthen your application.
6
Talk to the funder before you apply
Many funding bodies encourage a pre-application conversation. A quick call can tell you whether your project is a good fit and what they’re looking for, saving you time and improving your chances.
Need a letter of support, or want to talk through your project before applying? Get in touch, we’re happy to help.
Contact ADG