2013–14 Indigenous Sport and
Active Recreation Program
(ISARP)
Program information and guidelines
Contents
Part one: What is essential in an application? .................................................................................................. 1
1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 1
2. What does the ISARP aim to do? .................................................................................................................. 2
3. Who can apply for funding? ......................................................................................................................... 2
4. What activities can the funding round support? .......................................................................................... 2
4.1 Sport and active recreation activities and programs ........................................................................... 2
4.2 Employment ......................................................................................................................................... 4
4.3 List of common items considered for funding ..................................................................................... 5
5. What activities are not supported by the Funding Round? .......................................................................... 6
6. How are applications assessed and selected? .............................................................................................. 6
7. Multi-Year Funding ....................................................................................................................................... 7
8. Required information and project plans ...................................................................................................... 7
9. Flexible funding pool .................................................................................................................................... 8
Part two: Program performance measures and evaluation .............................................................................. 9
10. Performance indicators .............................................................................................................................. 9
Part three: Program administration ................................................................................................................ 10
11. Closing date and lodgment of applications .............................................................................................. 10
12. General information ................................................................................................................................. 11
12.1 Taxation and Australian Government Funding ................................................................................ 11
12.2 Financial viability and background checks ....................................................................................... 11
12.3 Privacy .............................................................................................................................................. 11
13. Conditions of funding ............................................................................................................................... 12
13.1 Funding round requirements and obligations ................................................................................. 12
13.2 Reporting ......................................................................................................................................... 12
13.3 Payments ......................................................................................................................................... 12
13.4 Conflicts of interest .......................................................................................................................... 13
13.5 Funding Agreements for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific positions ........................... 13
14. Roles and responsibilities ......................................................................................................................... 14
14.1 Applicants / funding recipients ........................................................................................................ 14
14.2 Office for Sport ................................................................................................................................ 14
14.3 Indigenous Coordination Centres (ICCs) .......................................................................................... 14
14.4 Other government agencies and jurisdictions ................................................................................. 14
15. Complaints ......................................................................................................................................... 15
Appendix 1 ..................................................................................................................................................... 16
Key definitions ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Appendix 2 ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
Employment ................................................................................................................................................... 17
Background .............................................................................................................................................. 17
ISARP employment subsidies ................................................................................................................... 17
Appendix 3 ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
National contact ............................................................................................................................................. 19
Part one: What is essential in an application?
Prior to completing an application you should read these guidelines carefully.
All applicants seeking funding under the Indigenous Sport and Active Recreation Program (ISARP) must make a
formal application. Organisations are encouraged to apply online using the electronic submission (eSub) at
www.indigenous.gov.au/esub. Alternatively, contact the Office for Sport to get an application pack (Contact
details are at Appendix 3).
The eSub or application pack will outline the information and supporting documents required in the
submission.
Applications are assessed by the Office for Sport based on the information provided in the application.
Therefore, it is important that applicants answer all questions with as much detail as possible. It is important
that organisations do not assume that the Office for Sport already has information about your organisation, or
that your organisation will automatically receive funding because it has in the past.
Successful applicants may only spend grant funds on the agreed activity and in accordance with a signed
funding agreement. Unspent (surplus) funds and funds that are not spent in accordance with the funding
agreement will need to be repaid to the Office for Sport.
If you require assistance to complete your application contact the Office for Sport on the number listed at
Appendix 3.
1. Introduction
The ISARP is a program administered by the Office for Sport as part of the Australian Government’s ‘whole of
government’ approach to assisting Indigenous Australians
The ISARP supports community participation in sport and active recreation activities that help to improve the
health and physical wellbeing of Indigenous Australians and those that contribute to broader social benefits for
participants and their communities, whilst providing entry level employment opportunities for Indigenous (and
non-Indigenous) people in sport and recreational activities.
The ISARP contributes to the identified target area of closing the life expectancy gap within a generation within
the Australian Government’s initiative of Closing the Gap in Indigenous disadvantage by providing more
opportunities for sport and physical activity among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Council of
Australian Governments (COAG) recognises that overcoming Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander disadvantage
requires long-term generational commitment that will see major efforts directed across a number of strategic
platforms or ‘Building Blocks’. Of the seven Building Blocks endorsed by COAG, the ISARP primarily contributes
to Health (by encouraging a healthier lifestyle that includes physical activity), Economic Participation (through
employment opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people such as sport and recreation
officers), Safe Communities (by providing an alternative to anti-social behavior) and Governance and
Leadership (by funding initiatives to build capacity of Indigenous communities to deliver sport and recreation
activities independently).
These Guidelines are provided to assist the preparation of applications for funding available through the ISARP
in three key streams:
1.
2.
delivery of sport and active recreation activities and programs
supplementation of the costs of employment of people including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people to support and assist in the delivery of sport and active recreation activities and programs, and
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3.
a flexible funding pool which supports sport and active recreation programs designed to address Closing
the Gap targets.
2. What does the ISARP aim to do?
The objectives of the ISARP are:
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to increase the active participation of able and disabled Indigenous Australians in sport and active
recreation activities
to encourage and increase community ownership and management of sport and active recreation
activities, including through skills development, and
to provide employment opportunities for people to support and/or assist in the provision of sport and
active recreation activities and specifically for entry level positions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander people for positions available more broadly in the sport and active recreation industry.
3. Who can apply for funding?
Any person or organisation with a current Australian Business Number (ABN) can apply for funding. This
includes community-based, not-for-profit organisations that can enter into a legally binding funding agreement
with the Australian Government.
Government bodies can also apply but their applications will only be considered if there is a clearly identified
need for the proposed project and the community has been consulted and supports the proposed project.
Evidence of community consultation and support may take the form of a letter or letters signed by relevant
community organisations (for example, a local governing body or land council). The letter or letters should
clearly explain what the proposed project is, how it will assist the community, how the community has been
consulted and that the project has the support of the community.
Government bodies will also need to identify if their project or a similar project has previously been funded by
another level of government (i.e. state, territory or local). If it has, the body will need to provide a strong
justification as to why the Australian Government should fund the project. This information should be provided
in the e-Sub or paper submission in response to the question ‘5—Community Consultation and Demonstrated
Activity/ Funding Need—part D). Why is ISARP funding needed for this Activity?
Examples of organisations funded under the ISARP include but is not limited to:
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community organisations
local sporting groups
national sporting organisations
state sporting organisations
local government authorities
state/territory governments
private-owned organisations.
4. What activities can the funding round support?
4.1 Sport and active recreation activities and programs
The ISARP supports a whole range of activities from high participation sports (including cricket, football,
netball, basketball and athletics) through to Traditional Indigenous Games. The activities can include but are
not limited to regular training sessions and competing in regular (weekly) competitions. Activities that include
lead up preparation and training and culminate in the attendance at carnivals, and competitions will be
considered a higher priority than those activities that are for example, one/two day carnival based.
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Projects will attract stronger support if they:
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encourage wide community involvement and active participation in group sport and active recreation activities
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build the skills of community members to participate in, organise and promote community sport and active
recreation activities over the long term, and
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encourage alcohol and drug-free participation and respect for players, officials and spectators.
Examples of the types of activities that are eligible for support under the ISARP are provided below. If
organisations are not sure if the proposed project fits they should contact the Office for Sport (see Appendix 3
for contact details).
Sport and active recreation activities
The ISARP supports a wide range of activities from sports (e.g. cricket, football, netball etcetera) through to
Traditional Indigenous Games. Information on Traditional Indigenous Games and other active recreation
pursuits is available on the Australian Sports Commission website at:
http://www.ausport.gov.au/participating/indigenous/resources/games_and_activities.
Activities can be delivered over the entire year or a shorter timeframe although emphasis is placed on
supporting sustainable sport and active recreation activities that are ongoing.
The focus of the ISARP is on activities that require physical exertion that promote the health, wellbeing and
fitness of participants. Activities that require a low level of physical exertion will only be considered when the
identified target group has a limited ability to participate in activities that require a higher level of physical
exertion.
Small Grants Programs
The ISARP can support small grants programs that provide funds to individuals or sporting teams to compete in
sport and active recreation events, excluding International events, and can include the purchase of sporting
equipment.
All applications for funding for a small grants program must include the organisation’s draft program guidelines
for approval. These are to include the terms and conditions that will apply to grants.
The draft guidelines must comply with the aims and objectives of the ISARP (see Section 2 above: ‘What does
the ISARP aim to do?’) and clearly set out the criteria that individuals/teams applying for a grant will be
assessed against. The criteria should include:
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the expected age range of individuals or teams supported
the amount available to individuals per grant and in total for the year
the amount available to teams per grant and in total for the year
activities that will be supported and activities that will not be supported, and
a means test for individuals and teams (if applicable).
All applications for funding for a small grants program must also have a suitable privacy policy in place
regarding the information provided by individuals and teams applying for a grant. The privacy policy should be
available to all applicants and it should make clear that information about applicants will be made available,
upon request, to the Office for Sport and the auditors of the organisation funded under the program.
Sport and active recreation camps including training camps
The ISARP supports the establishment and continuance of introductory, training and participation camps which
focus on skill acquisition and development of both coaching and officiating staff and participants.
Sport and active recreation outreach activities
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The ISARP supports ongoing outreach activities as they generate interest and participation in physical activity
and sport. Outreach activities are important for establishing and maintaining intra and intercommunity
relationships. These events or programs are often outside of the community and require some travel to attend,
but are close enough to allow for a return trip within the day.
Sport and active recreation competitions/carnivals
ISARP funding is available for the net cost / costs associated with staging sport and active recreation
competitions and carnivals. Priority will be given to longer-term, sustainable carnivals/competitions that could
run annually or bi-annually and those that can demonstrate significant effort in raising funds from sources
other than the ISARP. Such competitions/carnivals could be part of a broader program that aims to increase
participation in sport on a regular basis rather than just provide a one-off event.
Competitions/carnivals that incorporate key lead-up activities—like accredited coaching and
officiating/umpiring courses as well as volunteer management activities—will also be given a higher priority
than those that do not include these capacity-building opportunities. For example, an annual regional sporting
carnival (such as netball, football or cricket) that brings together Indigenous players from across a region and
incorporates a skills development component (such as the training and accreditation of coaches or officials),
would be considered a higher priority than a one-off carnival associated with a festival or other non-sporting
event.
In addition to the general requirement for a risk assessment to be provided for projects/activities included in
an application for funding, any applications for funding for competitions/carnivals must include a specific risk
assessment for the event that identifies all the foreseeable risks and how the organisation proposes to manage
the risks. Events must include safety and security aspects identifying the role and level of consultation
undertaken with government agencies, local authorities and Police.
If planning details for the competition/carnival are not complete at the time of lodging the application for
funding, the relevant authorities may indicate in-principle support for the competition/carnival subject to the
appropriate finalisation of planning details. A letter or letters expressing this in-principle support is sufficient
for the assessment period.
Applications for competitions/carnivals must also include the following:
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an estimate of the number of participants (does not include spectators)
whether participants will be required to pay an entry fee and how much that fee will be
an estimate of the expected financial return of the carnival/competition, and
a full budget for the whole event (not just the Office for Sport-funded component).
4.2 Employment
Subsidies for employment are available under the ISARP on the basis that the positions are directly involved in
the support and or delivery of ISARP funded activities or projects, or that they are to continue entry level
positions for those previously supported under the former Job Creation Package—Sport and Recreation or
Community Development Employment Program. Subject to availability, funding subsidies may be provided for
positions that:
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Are required to deliver an ISARP funded program (includes positions filled by non-Indigenous people).
Are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific. These positions are entry level positions that can be
part-time or full-time employees. Funding for these positions is based on entry level award payments in
each state/territory. The objectives of funding employment positions identified for Indigenous
Australians are to:
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assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to enter the workforce in the sport and
recreation sector in regional and remote Australia
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ensure appropriate training and mentoring of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees
entering the workforce, and
where appropriate, support the delivery of the ISARP.
These jobs are to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with increased economic independence
and career pathways with those employed benefiting from mainstream employment conditions such as proper
wages, superannuation and professional development.
Organisations seeking funding for positions identified to be filled by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
employees will be assessed against the organisation’s ability to meet established ISARP aims and objectives,
capacity to meet performance and financial reporting obligations.
4.3 List of common items considered for funding
The following list is a guide to common items that may be considered for funding. Please note that all requests
will be assessed individually. Funding for administration and operational costs will only be considered where
organisations can demonstrate that these items are essential to delivering this specific project and not just
towards the ongoing operation or running of the organisation.
Organisations should ensure that requested line item costs are realistic and justifiable.
Project/event costs
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Purchase of sport and active recreation equipment. Applicants will need to itemise the equipment to be
purchased and the estimated cost (e.g. 4 cricket bats, 10 cricket balls, 10 sets of protective gear etc etera).
Purchase of uniforms.
Registration fees for sport and physical recreation events.
Venue/ground hire.
Administration/operational costs
Administration costs should be kept to a minimum and should not exceed 20A per cent of the total project
costs, and organisations that direct the majority of their budget towards sport and recreation activities are
often considered more favorably. Organisations must be able to demonstrate that these items are essential to
the direct delivery of the project and they are proportional to the proposed activities:
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Office supplies and consumables including phone and other service costs (details to be provided).
Office rent—a contribution to office rent will only be considered where the organisation can
demonstrate that funding sought directly contributes to the running of an ISARP funded program.
Organisations will be required to provide a detailed explanation in their submission.
Projects should be delivered by appropriately qualified (accredited) staff/trainers. All applications will
need to clearly identify who will be delivering the activity and their qualifications. Attendance of staff
and volunteers at appropriate training/accreditation courses where required will be considered.
Administrative/managerial staff who are essential to the delivery of the ISARP funded activity.
Vehicle leasing
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Applicants will need to explain why the lease of a vehicle is necessary. It must be linked to the
delivery of ISARP funded programs or delivery of other sport and active recreation activities
and/or programs.
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Applicants will need to specify what the vehicle will be used for and how often (e.g. trips to 10
outstations twice a year).
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The leasing of vehicles for staff and/or Board members as part of any remuneration package is
not eligible for funding under the ISARP.
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Applicants will need to indicate where the vehicle will be garaged/parked, who will use the
vehicle and why, and agree to complete a log book entry for every trip the vehicle makes
(including driver name, purpose, kilometres, time and date of departure and return).
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Other costs associated with the direct delivery of an ISARP funded activity such as insurance and audit
fees is eligible for funding under the ISARP.
Employment
Funding to subsidise a range of positions is available under the ISARP. This may include managers,
coordinators, sport and recreation officers, team leaders, program and administrative support personnel. For
all positions other than entry level positions, the applicant must be able to demonstrate how the position
contributes to an ISARP funded project or to the delivery of sport and recreation activities and programs that
are consistent with ISARP aims and objectives. Support for these positions may be provided regardless of the
ethnicity of the occupant.
Support for entry level positions is provided to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to gain
employment in the sport and active recreation industry. Therefore, applications for entry level positions only
need to demonstrate that the person will be working in a sport and active recreation related capacity.
However, occupants of these positions must be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Applications for funding to subsidise employment in any position must include a duty statement for that
position, clearly identifying the tasks and responsibilities and where appropriate qualifications/training
required for the position. A justification for the position explaining why the tasks and responsibilities of the
sport and recreation officer cannot be carried out by an Indigenous Sport Development Officer (ISDO) will also
need to be provided.
Applications also need to show how the sport and active recreation position for which funding is sought would
work with existing ISDOs or other community-based sport and recreation officers in their region.
5. What activities are not supported by the Funding Round?
The ISARP funds activities that support community participation in sport and active recreation. Funding
available through the ISARP annual funding round therefore will not include:
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construction and/or maintenance of sporting facilities or funding of capital works items. Primary
responsibility for the development and maintenance of community infrastructure and sporting facilities
rests with the state, territory and local governments
support for ISDOs (and their state and territory government funded equivalents) attached to state and
territory sport and recreation departments
activities that do not directly engage Indigenous Australians in sport and active recreation—for example,
projects that predominantly involve marketing or administration
broader recreational pursuits that do not involve physically active recreation, and
specific arts, culture or religious activities.
NAIDOC Week activities are not eligible for funding under the ISARP program. The Department of Families,
Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) manages funds for the support of NAIDOC
projects. Details on funding for NAIDOC week projects can be found at: http://www.fahcsia.gov.au/ourresponsibilities/indigenous-australians/programs-services/recognition-respect/public-awareness-program.
6. How are applications assessed and selected?
Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:
1.
2.
the extent to which the project meets the aims and objectives of the ISARP
the consistency between the activity’s proposed outcomes with the government’s national and regional
priorities
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
the effectiveness of the project to engage and meet the needs of the target group. Note in 2013–14
organisations are encouraged to submit projects that focus on increasing participation in, and/or
involvement of, Indigenous females in sport and active recreation
the value for money that the proposed activity represents
the ability to engage other agencies and jurisdictions to financially support or deliver the activity (partly
or jointly)
the strength of the project against other proposals that target the same or similar groups
the extent to which the proposed activities duplicates other activities
the extent to which the organisation can demonstrate an ability to deliver activities of this type,
including the ability to monitor, record and report on outcomes
evidence of the organisation’s commitment to working towards long term sustainability and building
partnerships to support the on-going delivery of the activities.
Assessments are undertaken throughout March to May with applicants expected to be informed of the
outcome of applications before the start of the financial year.
Applications may be assessed as suitable against all of the selection criteria yet not receive any funding due to
the competitive nature of the program. Applicants must not only meet each selection criteria but perform
favorably in comparison to many other suitable applicants.
The experience of previous years indicates that not all applicants will receive funding, while some will offered
less funding than requested.
IMPORTANT PLEASE NOTE
The ISARP receives a high number of applications for funding that far exceeds the available funds. It is very
important that applicants do not assume that they will receive funding on the basis they have in the past and
that they provide relevant, detailed information in response to each question in the submission. Requested
funding must be in proportion to the project’s outcomes and must demonstrate value for money.
The assessment of applications against the program assessment criteria will be undertaken by the Sport
Programs Section, Office for Sport assessment panels. Panels may seek additional information from applicants
to clarify aspects of the application. A recommendation will then be made to the delegate for a final decision.
Funding may be offered for less than that requested in the application, or funding may be offered for
components of the application. If this occurs, the Office for Sport will work with the organisation to review the
projects objectives, activities and budget.
7. Multi-Year Funding
Funding approved under the ISARP to organisations may, at the discretion of the delegate, be offered funding
agreements for up to 3 years. Organisations considered for multi-year funding agreements must, at a
minimum, be able to demonstrate financial viability over the period and that they are able to sustain a high
standard of service delivery for the entire period. Priority will be given to organisations that are able to
demonstrate a history of high quality performance. The Program Manager will have the discretion to withdraw
or vary a multi-year funding agreement if an organisation is not meeting performance and financial reporting
requirements. Organisations will need to indicate in their application whether they wish to be considered for
single year or multi-year funding.
8. Required information and project plans
In order to assess applications, the Office for Sport requires full and complete answers to all the questions in
the application form. Proposals must:
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demonstrate how the project will achieve the aims and objectives of the ISARP
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include the timeline or schedule of the activity (recommended to commence not before 15 July 2013)
include a detailed budget, and
show how any risks to the proposal will be minimised.
All of these points are covered by the program specific questions under ‘Eligibility’, ‘Activity Planning’, ‘Budget
Details’ and ‘Risks’ sections in the application form. Organisations must provide detailed responses to these
questions.
9. Flexible funding pool
From time to time, proposals are received from organisations outside the Annual Funding Round application
period that clearly identify sport and active recreation activities that use sport and active recreation as a tool to
address the Australian Government’s Closing the Gap agenda. Initiatives of this nature are generally whole of
government initiatives that are more strategic in nature and may be supported by other partners (for example,
private sector organisations, community organisations, other government agencies and other levels of
government). Proposals of this nature will complement existing ISARP programs and will contribute to
sustained change and improved outcomes for Indigenous communities. Organisations seeking funds through
the Flexible Funding Pool will need to clearly demonstrate how their proposals are designed to address the
Australian Government’s Closing the Gap agenda.
Proposals received for the FFP will be assessed against the likelihood of the project leading to improved
outcomes against one or more of the Closing the Gap targets in the identified communities or regions.
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Part two: Program performance measures and
evaluation
The Office for Sport measures the success of the ISARP annual funding round against the key performance
indicators outlined below.
10. Performance indicators
Performance Indicators are used to assist in determining if the program is achieving its objectives. Performance
Indicators can be designed to measure either numbers (quantity) or the quality of the services delivered.
The Performance Indicators that will be used for projects funded under the ISARP are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
The number of participants in the funded activity. Individual participants should not be double counted
and this does not include spectators. For example, if a participant is playing in a football team and they
play 10 matches then they are counted as one participant.
The number of times the activity was held.
The percentage of participants who are over 18.
The percentage of participants who are male.
The percentage of participants in the activity who are Indigenous.
The number of participants with a disability.
The number of Indigenous people involved with the management of the activity.
The number of Indigenous people who successfully completed accredited training in coaching /
officiating.
For the employment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific positions, the applicant will need to report
against:
8.
9.
The length of time the position is filled, and
The average number of hours worked per week.
The Office for Sport may choose to include additional performance indicators into funding agreements. These
additional performance indicators would be discussed with organisations prior to their inclusion in any funding
agreement.
Successful applicants will need to report against all indicators included in their funding agreements and should
consider the potential reporting requirements when developing project plans.
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Part three: Program administration
11. Closing date and lodgment of applications
PLEASE NOTE
Applications for the next funding year must be submitted via e-Sub or be sent to the Office for Sport (see
Appendix 3) with a postmarked date of no later than 16 March 2013.
All applicants seeking funding must complete a formal application. Applicants are encouraged to apply online.
The electronic submission (e-Sub) is available at www.indigenous.gov.au/esub.
e-Sub is an Australian Government website that enables organisations to apply for various Indigenous grant
programs through an electronic submission. Applicants will need to register with e-Sub at the above website
prior to submitting an application.
Alternatively, you can contact the Office for Sport (see Appendix 3 for contact details) to get an application
pack sent to you.
Postal applications should be submitted to:
The Office for Sport
Sport Programs Section
GPO Box 803
Canberra ACT 2601
Applicants are encouraged to speak with the relevant Office for Sport contact officer (see Appendix 3) before
applying for funding. Advice received from staff is for information purposes only and should not be viewed as
legal advice.
Applications must be submitted by the advertised closing date. Extensions on submissions will only be
considered in exceptional circumstances. These will be determined on a case by case basis by the Office for
Sport.
Where unforeseen circumstances prevent applications being submitted on time, applicants should contact the
Office for Sport (Appendix 3) as soon as possible but before the closing date. The initial contact may be by
phone however, all correspondence will need to be followed up with a written request. Where an extension is
granted the Office for Sport will confirm the extension date in writing.
Proposed 2013–14 ISARP Funding Round Timeline
ISARP Funding Round Open
ISARP Funding Round Close
ISARP applications assessed by the Office for Sport panel
ISARP successful organisations announced
Discussions with successful applicants and execution of
funding agreements.
ISARP information and program guidelines
2 February 2013
16 March 2013
Late March to May 2013
June 2013
June 2013
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12. General information
12.1 Taxation and Australian Government Funding
There may be taxation consequences of obtaining funding under the ISARP, depending on individual
circumstances.
Applicants should make their own enquiries about the taxation consequences (including income tax and Goods
and Services Tax) by consulting their financial adviser or the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Business Call
Centre on 13 28 66.
Australian Business Number
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An Australian Business Number (ABN) is a single identification number identifying an entity to the ATO
and other organisations.
Goods and Services Tax Registration
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Community Groups or other non-profit organisations with an annual turnover of $150,000 or more, and
other organisations or individuals carrying on a business with an annual turnover of $75 000 or more,
are required by law to be registered for the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Goods and Services Tax
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Unless otherwise indicated, funding provided by Office for Sport is subject to GST.
Organisations that are of a non-commercial government entity are not subject to GST under the Tax and
Superannuation Laws Amendment (2012 Measures No. 1) Bill of 2012.
Funding recipients that are registered (or required to be registered) for GST may have to pay GST to the
ATO on the funding it receives if it makes a taxable supply in return for that funding.
All budgets submitted under the program should be submitted exclusive of GST.
Income Tax, Superannuation and Fringe Benefits Tax
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Applicants should be generally aware that unless exempt from income tax:
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funding provided under this program is included as assessable income, in relation to carrying on a
business
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any capital gain on disposal of assets is assessable income, and
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funding recipients may have a requirement to pay fringe benefits tax and make superannuation
contributions to a complying fund or pay the superannuation guarantee charge to the ATO in
respect of any employees, if applicable.
12.2 Financial viability and background checks
The Office for Sport reserves the right, in its absolute discretion at any time in the evaluation and selection
process, to examine the financial records of the applicant, undertake background checks including criminal
records to determine the good character and business reputation of any person or organisation associated with
an application.
12.3 Privacy
The Office for Sport is accountable to Parliament and to the public in respect of all aspects of the ISARP, and
therefore grant submissions are not regarded as confidential.
Treatment of submissions is subject to special obligations placed on Australian Public Service employees by the
Public Service Act 1999. Submissions by individuals or personal information about individuals in submissions
will also be protected by the Privacy Act 1988.
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Information relating to all executed funding agreements under the ISARP will be made available on the Office
for Sport website. The information will include the name of the applicant, a project short description, the
amount of funding, the location of the successful applicant and the date the funding agreement was executed.
13. Conditions of funding
13.1 Funding round requirements and obligations
Successful applicants will need to execute a Standard Funding Agreement (SFA). The SFA sets out the nature of
the relationship between the Australian Government and the funding recipient. The SFA will specify, amongst
other things, the terms and conditions of the agreement, the objectives and key performance indicators for
each activity, a timeframe for completion of each activity, a budget for each activity, and the reporting and
audit requirements.
Funding recipients will be required to keep relevant records that can demonstrate the performance of the
activity in meeting its objectives.
In addition, the SFA will confirm the funding recipient’s agreement to abide by relevant Australian Government
laws and policies, including privacy and environmental and heritage laws.
Funding recipients should seek their own independent professional advice including legal advice as the Office
for Sport does not provide legal or other advice with respect to any financial, legal or other such matters
including compliance with any statutory obligations.
Please note: Funds will not be paid unless a SFA has been signed by both parties to the agreement (i.e.
Australian Government and the funding recipient). Funding is not available retrospectively and an activity
dependent on funding under this program should not commence before the execution of the formal
documentation by both parties.
Funding recipients may only spend funds on the agreed activity and in accordance with the signed SFA. The
Office for Sport may take immediate action including suspending, reducing or ceasing the release of funding if
funds are not managed appropriately. Unspent (surplus) funds and funds that are not spent in accordance with
the signed SFA will need to be repaid to the Office for Sport.
13.2 Reporting
Funding recipients will be required to provide reports to the Office for Sport, as specified in the SFA on progress
of the activity, progress against the budget and acquittal of funding. The SFA will specify the requirements and
the times by which the reports are to be provided.
At the end of the funding period, unless otherwise stated in the SFA, funding recipients will also be required to
submit a full acquittal of funding including an independently audited financial report. Details of all reporting
requirements will be outlined in the SFA.
13.3 Payments
All funding will be subject to the terms and conditions set out in the SFA, particularly conditions relating to the
deposit of funds, auditing and unspent program monies.
The initial payment will be made within 30 days of the execution of the SFA by the Office for Sport or as agreed
in the SFA. Funding recipients are required to provide bank account details for the payment of grant monies.
These details are required to allow the Office for Sport to generate a Recipient Created Tax Invoice (RCTI) to
allow for subsequent electronic payments to be made. Payment of approved funding will be made against
milestones set out in the SFA and in line with any other conditions set out in the SFA.
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The Office for Sport may not release funds if the recipient is in significant breach of any of their obligations
under the SFA.
13.4 Conflicts of interest
Funded recipients will be required to conduct their activities in a manner that avoids conflicts of interest and
the public perception of any such conflicts. This applies particularly to the selection of suppliers of goods and
services to the project, who must be chosen and engaged in an open and competitive procurement process
and in a manner that maximises in a demonstrable way, value for money.
13.5 Funding Agreements for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific
positions
Where a position is identified as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific position, the SFA will be issued
following acceptance of the letter of offer and receipt of job descriptions for each position. The first release of
funds will be made upon execution of the SFA or as otherwise agreed.
SFAs will include conditions relating to financial and performance reporting. The funding recipient will be
required to provide progress reports to the Office for Sport, as specified in the SFA, including progress against
agreed objectives and an approved budget.
It is important to note that, in accordance with the SFA the Office for Sport will take appropriate action,
including suspending, reducing or ceasing payments if organisations do not meet agreed deliverables.
For positions identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander specific funding is provided at the rate provided
at Appendix 2.
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14. Roles and responsibilities
14.1 Applicants / funding recipients
Applicants are responsible for providing accurate proposals addressing the requirements set out in the ISARP
information and guidelines.
Funding recipients are responsible for:
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Ensuring that terms and conditions of SFAs are met and that projects are managed in a cost effective
and efficient manner.
Providing progress reports as specified in the SFA.
Advising the Office for Sport of any delays or other issues that may adversely impact on the satisfactory
and/ or timely completion of projects included in the SFA.
Responding promptly to all reasonable requests from the Office for Sport.
Seeking independent relevant legal/ financial advice as required (Note: Office for Sport officers are not
able to provide legal/ financial advice).
14.2 Office for Sport
The Office for Sport is responsible for:
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Responding to queries from potential applicants during the application period and resolving any
uncertainties that may arise in relation to the application requirements (Note: Office for Sport staff are
not able to provide legal/financial advice to applicants, additionally Office for Sport staff are not able to
complete any part of the application.)
Assessing applications prior to the delegate’s approval.
Discussing (and negotiating as necessary) terms of SFAs with potential funding recipients.
Participating in relevant assessment forums, where appropriate.
Monitoring the performance of projects included in a SFA to ensure that the terms and conditions of the
SFA are met.
Assessing all performance, financial and final reports and following up with funding recipients as
required.
Providing advice to the appropriate delegate regarding requests for SFA variations.
Providing advice to the appropriate delegate regarding the acquittals of funded projects.
Responding in a timely manner to all reasonable requests from funding recipients.
Assisting with the collection of any unexpended funds by funding recipients.
Assisting with the development of Shared Responsibility Agreements or Regional Partnership
agreements or other whole of government interventions as required.
Working collaboratively with Indigenous Coordination Centres (ICCs) and other agencies in order to
enhance service delivery to Indigenous Australians.
14.3 Indigenous Coordination Centres (ICCs)
Although the ISARP is not managed through the ICC network, the Office for Sport undertakes to maintain
communication with ICC State Managers and keep them informed of funding decisions in their area/region.
14.4 Other government agencies and jurisdictions
The Office for Sport will liaise with key government agencies including the primary sport and active recreation
agency in each jurisdiction throughout the submission process. The Office for Sport reserves the right to discuss
individual submissions with these agencies and to seek their feedback on funding provided to organisations to
deliver similar projects.
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15. Complaints
All complaints or appeals on the outcome of funding rounds must be submitted in writing and addressed to the
Program Manager, Indigenous Sport and Active Recreation Program, GPO Box 803, Canberra ACT, 2601. All
complaints must be received within 14 working days of receipt of advice on the outcome of the funding round.
All complaints will be dealt with in a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory manner.
The complainant should provide details of the basis upon which the dispute or complaint is being lodged,
including:
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a clear statement as to what the complainant considers was defective in the funding process
copies of, or references to, evidence of information to support the complaint, and
a statement as to what the complainant wishes to achieve from the complaint process.
The Office for Sport will acknowledge receipt of the complaint in writing within 10 working days of receiving
the complaint. If further correspondence or information is required, the complainant will be given no less than
15 working days to respond to any communication from the Office for Sport unless the matter is urgent.
The Office for Sport will advise the complainant of the decision in writing within a reasonable timeframe, which
will usually be within 15 working days of receiving all written correspondence relating to a complaint.
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Appendix 1
Key definitions
Active recreation—activities that require some physical exertion or that involve some structured physical
activity which may promote the health, wellbeing and fitness of participants.
Broader recreational pursuits—activities that do not require some physical exertion and do not contribute to
improving an individual’s physical health or fitness. Examples of broader recreational pursuits include karaoke
and singing, painting and drawing. Funding for broader recreational pursuits is not available under the ISARP.
Camps—activities (normally outdoor activities) conducted under supervision away from the usual home
environment at a specific location or venue over a period of days or weeks. Participants are provided with
accommodation and meals and participate in a number of structured activities, normally as part of a team.
Community—a geographic location, bounded by physical or cadastral (legal) boundaries, and inhabited or
intended to be inhabited predominantly by Indigenous people, with housing or infrastructure that is either
owned or managed on a community basis. This definition covers discrete communities in urban, rural and
remote areas.
Equipment—an item or tool required to undertake an activity and/or to provide a service. Examples of sport
and active recreation equipment include bats, balls, safety equipment such as helmets and pads, nets,
basketball hoops, fitness equipment such as skipping ropes, weights, gym balls and mats, etcetera.
Indigenous Sport Development Officer (ISDO)—These officers liaise with Indigenous communities in their
region to assess the sporting needs and priorities. The ISDOs then coordinate the delivery of programs,
resources and services in partnership with the mainstream sporting industry and the relevant state/territory
departments of sport and recreation. The ISDOs aim to create sustainable programs by focusing on building the
sporting capacity of Indigenous Australians.
Outreach—a short trip to attend a specific event/program or to undertake a specific activity that does not take
longer than one day (i.e. does not involve an overnight stay). Access to an Outreach activity is a direct attempt
to elicit interest and participation in physical activity and sport.
Sport—a human activity capable of achieving a result requiring physical exertion and/or physical skill which, by
its nature and organisation, is competitive and is generally accepted as being a sport.
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Appendix 2
Employment
Background
Indigenous Australians experience much higher levels of unemployment than non-Indigenous Australians. In
2008, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreed to six targets to ‘close the gap’ between
Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
The National Partnership on Indigenous Economic Participation contributes to the COAG’s target to halve the
gap in employment outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians within a decade. To achieve
this, around 100,000 more Indigenous Australians would need to be employed.
Reforms to the Community Development Employment Projects (CDEP) Program are a part of efforts to meet
this target. CDEP played a major role supporting activities in the sport and recreation sectors. The conversion of
CDEP positions to real jobs occurred under the Jobs Creation Package which has been merged with the former
Indigenous Sport and Recreation Program (ISRP) into the new Indigenous Sport and Active Recreation Program
(ISARP) administered by the Office for Sport.
ISARP employment subsidies
Under the ISARP, employment subsidies are available to support positions, filled by Indigenous and nonIndigenous Australians, who are directly or indirectly involved in the delivery of ISARP funded projects and
activities. Employment subsidies are also available for entry level positions for Indigenous Australians only in
the broader sport and active recreation industry. These subsidies are intended to facilitate Indigenous
Australians entry into the sport and active recreation workforce and do not need to be directly or indirectly
related to the delivery of ISARP funded projects and activities.
Under the ISARP positions in the first category (subsidies for employment of any Australian to deliver or
contribute to the delivery of ISARP funded projects and activities) need to be justified as part of the application,
satisfying the relevant criteria (eg value for money).
Employment subsidies in the second category (for entry level positions for Indigenous Australians only but not
necessarily connected to ISARP funded projects and activities) are available for part time or full time positions
at the following prescribed levels.
Type of position
NT
(GST Incl)
Part Time—15 hours per week (min)
$23,146
$29,879
$38,576
$46,291
$58,630
Part Time—20 hours per week
Part Time—25 hours per week
Part Time—30 hours per week
Full Time—38 hours per week (max)
TSI
(GST Incl)
$21,450
Other jurisdictions
(GST Incl)
$22,250
$27,286
$29,033
$35,751
$37,083
$42,901
$44,500
$54,346
$56,375
NOTE: These subsidies are a contribution towards the full cost of employment, including salary, training and
any on-costs that need to be met by the employing organisation.
Employing organisations will be required to submit quarterly or half-yearly performance reports and, at the
end of the standard funding period, a final acquittal, including independently audited financial statements. All
unspent funds must be returned to the Office for Sport.
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Multi-year funding for employment subsidies is available to organisations that can demonstrate a strong track
record of achievement to provide both employees and organisations with the increased planning potential and
financial security.
Priority will be given to providing employment subsidies for entry level positions to be filled by an Indigenous
Australian who was:
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a participant of the CDEP program immediately before commencing in the position, or
a CDEP participant in the past but was in receipt of income support immediately before accepting the
position, or
a job seeker, following a fair recruitment process, where it is not possible to fill the position with the
participants specified above.
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Appendix 3
National contact
Office for Sport
Department of Regional Australia, Local Government,
Arts and Sport
GPO Box 803
Canberra ACT 2601
ISARP information and program guidelines
Phone: 02 6210 2999
Email: IndigenousSport@pmc.gov.au
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