13th May 2026
Author: Maree DeGeorge
More opportunities for women and girls to get involved in basketball are on the way, with Round 3 of the Play Our Way Association Grants program now open for associations across Victoria.
Eligible associations can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to deliver female-focused programs and initiatives that help grow participation, build confidence and strengthen connections within local basketball communities.
Funding can support a range of activities, including all-girls Ford Aussie Hoops programs, coaching and refereeing development opportunities, skills camps and other initiatives designed to inspire and engage women and girls both on and off the court.
Associations that have not previously received funding through Rounds 1 or 2 are strongly encouraged to apply.
Applications are now open and close at 5:00pm on Tuesday 27 May 2026.
This is a great opportunity for associations to bring new ideas to life, grow participation and help more women and girls feel connected to the game.
Creating Real Impact Across Associations
One association already seeing the benefits of the program is Western Port Basketball Association, which used previous Play Our Way funding to launch an All-Girls Ford Aussie Hoops program across Term 4, 2025 and Term 1, 2026.
The initiative created a safe and welcoming space for girls new to basketball, while also helping develop young female coaches within the association. The program attracted 11 participants in its opening term before growing to 15 participants in Term 1, with strong ongoing interest seeing the program continue beyond its initial rollout.
Sessions focused on fun, confidence building and creating a positive first basketball experience for girls who may not yet have felt comfortable joining mixed-gender programs.
Basketball Victoria Women & Girls Participation Manager, Leah Swain said the program was a fantastic example of how associations can maximise the impact of Play Our Way funding.
“What’s really exciting about Western Port’s program is they’ve created impact across multiple areas of their association through one initiative,” Swain said.
“Not only did they provide an all-girls entry level basketball program, they also used it as an opportunity to develop young female coaches, while bringing in their BigV imports to help mentor and support that group.
“By thinking about the program in such a multi-faceted way, they’ve strengthened opportunities for both players and coaches, while creating a really positive and welcoming environment for girls starting their basketball journey.”
To apply and learn more click on the button below: Play Our Way Association Grants
Associations with questions or who are unsure about eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact Leah Swain via email at leah.swain@basketballvictoria.com.au
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