Women in sport who are looking to develop professionally and take on leadership roles are being encouraged to apply for the Sport Leadership Grants and Scholarships for Women (SLGSfW).

The Australian Government initiative, administered by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and Australian Government’s Office for Women, opened for applications on March 10.

Now in its 12th year, the SLGSfW have provided over 20 000 Australian women with educational and development opportunities to reach their full leadership potential.

The 2013–14 program will provide $400 000 in funding for women to undertake accredited sport leadership training in the areas of coaching, officiating, governance, management and administration as well as communications, media and marketing.

Grants are available for individuals and organisations. Individuals can apply for up to $5000 and organisations for up to $10 000 per annum to undertake development opportunities.

Past scholarship recipient Tessa Pentony encourages women to apply. “The program is a great way for women to take that next step in their leadership development,” she says.

“Women make a valuable contribution to sport and it’s great to see a program that recognises this and assists them in their journey.”

Applications close Friday 26 April 2013. To find out more about the program or submit an application click here.