NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program 2026/27 - Category 2

The NSW Rugby World Cup Legacy Program 2026/27 Category 2 participation stream aims to increase participation in Rugby with new or enhanced program/competition formats and increase opportunities for participation in Rugby for under-represented groups.

Key objectives

• Increase participation in Rugby with new or enhanced program/competition formats
• Increase opportunities for participation in Rugby for under-represented groups
• Priority will be given to innovative, program/competition formats that expand participation pathways and/or test alternative models of competition delivery beyond traditional programs.

Eligible applicants

• Incorporated, not for profit rugby union associations or zones in NSW that are affiliated and have met compliance requirements of NSWRU and/or ACT&SNSWRU.

Types of projects funded under this grant

Funds will be prioritised to projects that are:

• new or innovative
• for program/competition formats that expand participation base and/or
• pilot alternative models of competition delivery beyond traditional programs.

Programs put forward for funding should be holistic and demonstrate that consideration has been given to all the elements of the program necessary to result in the increased participation and other outcomes.

Where a new population group is targeted, there should be a clear explanation of the opportunity (e.g.: size of market, level of interest/demand), how the consultation and ongoing engagement with this group will occur and be sustained over the delivery timeframe to maximise sustainability of the program.

The proposed program should be discussed with the relevant contact at NSWRU and/or ACT&SNSWRU staff to ensure that its realistic, aligns with the Rugby Strategic priorities and feedback and support can be provided to strengthen the application.  Please note the relevant Rugby contact will not be involved in the assessment of the application.

Examples of population groups that may be targeted or modified programs/competitions that may be considered include:

• Women and girls’ participation (e.g. new girls’ competitions) 
• First Nations or Pasifika groups 
• Tri Tag Rugby Programs (adults)
• Modified programs/competitions for Under 85kg, over 35 aged etc
• Introductory programs for children and young people e.g. Get into Rugby programs or Tri Tag Rugby programs.