Grassroots story behind the community sport movement

Junior netball registrations across Canberra hit 3,150 players for the 2026 winter season, up from 2,680 two years earlier.

The increase tracks directly to new after-school sessions that began in March at neighbourhood ovals and halls. Parents and volunteer coaches started these groups after seeing waitlists at established clubs stretch past capacity.

Local clubs fill gaps left by bigger venues

Two programs show how the pattern works on the ground. At Dickson Oval off Antill Street, a Thursday evening clinic run by the North Canberra Netball Association added three under-12 teams this year. In Gungahlin, the Gungahlin Netball Club opened a second Saturday morning court at the Nicholls Neighbourhood Oval because the original one booked out by early April.

Coaches keep costs low by sharing equipment stored at the Dickson Community Centre and using free council permits for the ovals. Players pay $95 for the full season, which covers insurance and a basic uniform top.

Numbers and next steps for families

ACT Government sport data released in June 2026 recorded 14 percent more junior teams registered in the past 12 months compared with 2025. The same report noted that 62 percent of new players came from suburbs north of the Federal Highway, where housing growth has been fastest.

Parents who want to join can check availability through the ACT Netball website or call the North Canberra association on weekdays. New teams for the spring term open registration on 20 July at both Dickson and Nicholls sites.