Full throttle for grassroots motorsport
Tuesday 6 October 2026
Grassroots car clubs are set to benefit from a further four years of support through the State Government’s expanded Car Club Program as South Australia’s reputation as the nation’s motorsport capital helps drive growth far beyond the big events.
Having already delivered $2 million in grants to local car and motorcycle clubs, supporting more than 250 initiatives, the State Government has locked the program in for the next four years.
The additional $2 million commitment made in this year’s Budget will support more clubs to upgrade facilities, grow participation, host events and keep the state’s rich motorsport culture firing on all cylinders.
The most recent funding round saw 50 clubs share in $500,000, helping deliver projects ranging from track upgrades and new infrastructure to major events drawing visitors to regional communities.
Among the success stories is the Sporting Car Club of South Australia, one of the nation’s oldest and largest motoring clubs, which has used multiple rounds of funding to strengthen and modernise its iconic Collingrove Hillclimb facility in the Barossa.
Grants over the last four years have helped resurface sections of the track, improve drainage and safety barriers, install new inclusive changeroom facilities and support the construction of new clubrooms.
Founded in 1934 and now boasting more than 1,700 members, the club has played a significant role in fostering generations of South Australian motoring enthusiasts, from weekend hobbyists to competitive racers.
Last year’s funding also supported a new junior circuit at Riverland Speedway, helping fuel the passion of young drivers and creating new opportunities for the next generation to get behind the wheel in a safe and structured environment.
The program has also helped clubs stage events across the state, including Australia’s largest winter-themed automotive festival, Women on Track training days, the Centennial Grand Prix 90th anniversary celebrations and the Harley Owners State Rally, helping convert the excitement of South Australia's motorsport calendar into year-round grassroots participation.
Applications are now open until Friday, 27 November 2026. Eligible clubs must be a not-for-profit organisation operating for 12 months or longer.
For more information and to apply, visit https://dit.sa.gov.au/about-us/grants-and-funding/sa-car-club-program.