Game On Program - Key Facts

  • What is Game On? A new Australian Government program investing $50 million over four years to help up to 500 sporting clubs cut energy bills, boost resilience, and climate-proof their facilities.

  • Funding Scale & Reach: $50 million over four years, supporting up to 500 clubs across Australia.

  • Types of Upgrades Eligible: Solar panels and batteries, energy efficiency improvements, and climate adaptation measures like shade and drainage.

  • Grant Support + Co-investment: Clubs will be able to apply for government grants, with opportunities to leverage programs like the Cheaper Home Batteries program and Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) finance — meaning projects can be funded through a mix of grants, concessional loans, or subsidies.

  • Status: The Government has set the policy framework and funding commitment. The formal grant process has not yet opened — clubs should watch GrantConnect and departmental announcements for details.

Powering Community Sport with Solar and Batteries

The Albanese Government’s new Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program is set to transform the way local sporting clubs power their facilities, with a strong focus on solar and battery storage. Backed by a $50 million investment over four years, the program will support up to 500 clubs in cutting energy bills, futureproofing against climate change, and redirecting savings into grassroots sport.

Why Solar and Batteries for Sporting Clubs?

Sporting clubs are already at the frontline of climate impacts. Extreme heatwaves, heavier rain, and flooding are disrupting seasons, cancelling games, and straining already tight budgets. By installing solar panels and batteries, clubs can generate their own clean energy, store it for when it’s needed most, and drastically reduce their reliance on expensive grid power.

This is more than just a cost-saving measure:

  • Lower Bills = More Sport – Every dollar saved on power bills can be reinvested into equipment, coaching, participation programs, and facilities for women and girls.

  • Resilience Against Blackouts – Batteries mean clubs can keep the lights on and the fridges cold during outages, making them safe community hubs in extreme weather.

  • All-Weather Futureproofing – Combining renewable energy with drainage and shade upgrades helps clubs adapt to a changing climate while staying sustainable.

Real-World Impact: Case Studies

Cricket Australia’s National Cricket Centre, Brisbane

Cricket Australia, working with Cricket for Climate, installed a 285 kW solar system at its National Cricket Centre in Brisbane. In its first year, the system saved around $50,000 in energy costs and cut nearly 400 tonnes of carbon emissions. Over 20 years, it’s expected to save $1 million and avoid 8,000 tonnes of emissions — showing the scale of benefits when major facilities go solar.

Dalyston Football Club, Victoria

At the community level, Dalyston Football Club installed a 39.6 kW solar system with battery storage. Their annual electricity bill dropped from $8,600 to just $250, while generating over 56,000 kWh of clean energy each year. The system will pay for itself in around five years, freeing up thousands of dollars to reinvest in local sport — and keeping the club running even during power outages.

Unlocking Bigger Opportunities

The program is designed to link with other Federal Government initiatives:

By connecting clubs with energy providers, installers, and finance partners, the program aims to multiply its impact. It’s an open invitation for the private sector to join forces and make community sport cleaner, cheaper, and more resilient.

Leading by Example

Australian Test Captain Pat Cummins and his not-for-profit, Cricket for Climate, have already shown what’s possible. Since 2021, cricket clubs across the country have been installing solar systems that cut bills and carbon. The Game On program takes this model national, helping netball, football, soccer, and all codes embrace clean energy.

As Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen put it:

“Upgrading local sporting facilities, whether with new lights so we can play more at night, or solar panels that mean more money for equipment rather than bills, helps empower communities to secure what matters and inspire Australians to seize the potential of the energy transformation at home.”

A Team Effort for Climate Action

Community sport is about more than games — it’s about connection, resilience, and opportunity. By embracing solar and batteries, clubs will not only slash costs and emissions but also set a powerful example of practical climate action in everyday life.

This initiative shows that climate solutions aren’t just about large-scale projects — they’re about making sure every local oval, netball court, and swimming pool is part of the clean energy future.

Get Your Club Grant-Ready

The Game On program is a big opportunity for community clubs — but preparation is key. Solar Market can help your club understand its energy needs, explore solar and battery options, and be grant-ready when applications open. Keep an eye on our blog for the latest updates on the program and practical advice on maximising your club’s savings with solar.