Funding to Boost Rugby Participation and Facilities
The NSW Government is set to announce the recipients of the first round of the NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Programme on Saturday, 30 May 2026, at Holroyd Sportsground. This significant initiative is designed to bolster rugby development throughout New South Wales.
A total of thirty-eight rugby clubs and councils will benefit from $2.15 million in funding. This allocation is intended for the enhancement of rugby facilities and infrastructure, the improvement of player pathways, and the increase in participation levels among local communities.
This programme is part of the NSW Government’s broader $10 million investment in rugby union, which serves as a legacy from NSW hosting matches during the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027. The investment ensures long-term advantages for the sport within the region.
NSW Rugby Union CEO, Peter Murphy, and Rugby World Cup 2027 Managing Director, Chris Stanley, will join the event. Their presence highlights the program’s critical role in shaping the future of rugby in NSW.
Event Details and Attendees
The event, commencing at 10am, will include a photo opportunity featuring prominent individuals such as Steve Macklin, President of Merrylands Rugby Club, as well as Members of Parliament Dr Marjorie O’Neill and Julia Finn.
Cumberland City Council is set to receive funding aimed at upgrading Holroyd Sportsground with female-friendly facilities. These upgrades are part of broader efforts to make rugby more inclusive and accessible to women and girls.
Media inquiries can be directed to Steve Norris, Strategic Communications Manager for the NSW Office of Sport, at 0417 291 346. For further details about the programme and its impact, interested parties are encouraged to reach out.
The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Programme is expected to have a transformative impact on local communities. By strengthening infrastructure and promoting inclusive participation, the programme aims to cultivate a vibrant rugby culture across New South Wales.
The announcement will be a pivotal moment for rugby in NSW, marking the beginning of significant enhancements to the sport’s local infrastructure and community involvement.
Last updated: 31 May 2026, 6:33 am
