Every diver’s story eventually leads to a new chapter out of the water. In 2026, Diving Australia is once again supporting athletes through that transition with the opening of the Beyond the Boards (BTB) Grants, an initiative led by the DA Athlete Committee, to help current and former divers build skills, confidence, and careers beyond the pool.

With $25,000 in total funding available, the Beyond the Boards Grant continues to invest in the people behind the performances, providing practical financial assistance to support education supplies, professional development, and entrepreneurial pursuits during and after an athlete’s competitive career.

For 2025, the Athlete Committee has introduced a new two-tier funding structure to maximise the impact of the program:

Tier 1: Up to two successful applicants may each receive grants of up to $10,000 to support major projects or significant career opportunities.

Tier 2: The remaining funds will be distributed among additional successful applicants, with grants of up to $2,500 each.

The objective of the Beyond the Boards Grant is to support athletes as they set themselves up for life beyond diving. Funding may be used across a broad range of initiatives, including education and extracurricular activities, personal and professional development, start-up costs for a new business, or investment into an existing business venture.

Eligible applicants include current SIS/SAS scholarship holders, or retired athletes who held a SIS/SAS scholarship within the past eight years. Athletes who have represented Australia at any level are encouraged to apply and may be given preference during the selection process.

Diving Australia athlete and 2025 Beyond the Boards grant recipient Georgia Sheehan reflects on the lasting impact the program can have on an athlete’s post-sport journey.

“This grant gave me not just a financial boost, but the clarity and foundation to step into my career as a brand, digital, and communications strategist. The funding was an intentional investment, covering the essential costs of setting up my freelancing services and allowing me to show up with the kind of polish and precision that clients immediately notice. That early support gave me the confidence to pursue long-term opportunities – and ultimately led me to my current role with Prince Sports & Entertainment.”

The Athlete Committee encourages all eligible athletes to consider how the funding could support their long-term goals and aspirations beyond the sport.

Athletes are invited to download the Beyond the Boards Documents that include eligibility requirements, selection criteria, and the official application form.

Completed applications, along with any supporting documentation, must be submitted via email to athletecommittee@diving.org.au by the advertised closing date.

See below for Application Form and More Information.