Surfing Australia’s Surf for Life program was one of 69 projects to receive a Play Well participation grant with $10.3 million available to drive participation in sport.

Surfing Australia received a portion of this funding to expand its popular program across six states and offer 420 participants from low socioeconomic or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities the chance to experience surfing, many for the first time, free of charge.

Programs are currently underway in Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia with Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia to follow.

After completing the six-week learn to surf course, participants receive a voucher that can be used for more lessons, equipment hire or to purchase gear.

“We’re so excited about what this program is going to achieve. Thanks to the support from the Australian Sports Commission, we’re breaking down the barriers to sport and giving more people the chance to experience the joy of surfing,” Surfing Australia Participation and Programs Manager Blake Whittaker said.

“It’s not just about getting people in the water—it’s about building connections between participants, surf schools, and the wider surfing community, while promoting healthy and active lifestyles. We can’t wait to see the impact this expansion has across the country.”

The program will also help upskill 42 participants (seven per state) with coaching qualifications to help build skills and employment opportunities in local communities.

Other sports to receive funding include golf, badminton, table tennis. AFL Masters, rugby league, softball and orienteering.

More information on the Participation Grant program and a list of successful recipients is available on our website.