THE Fiji National Sports Commission (FNSC) will continue supporting national sporting organisations and grassroots development following its $13.17million allocation in the 2026–2027 National Budget, despite a slight decrease from last year.
FNSC executive chair Peter Mazey confirmed the commission’s funding was reduced by about $150,000 but said it remains realistic and sufficient to meet Fiji’s sporting needs.
“We had a very small decrease of $150,000 from last year, but we received $13.172 million and that’s for our operations and for all our national sporting organisations,” Mazey said.
He acknowledged the allocation was lower than what sporting bodies had requested, but stressed the commission was satisfied with the outcome.
“It’s quite a bit less than what the sporting bodies asked for, but we’re very happy to receive this. It’s realistic and we’ll work with all our national sports.”
Mr Mazey said the funding would allow Fiji to continue preparing athletes for major international competitions, including the Pacific Games, Youth Olympic Games and Rugby World Cup.
Of the total allocation, $11.65million will go to national sports federations through the FNSC. This includes $5.88million for overseas tours, $3million for hosting international events, $2.19million for international coaches, $185,869 for scholarships, and allocations for short-term expenses and disability grants.
A further $1.52million has been set aside for commission operations and community programmes, including sports outreach and grassroots initiatives.
Mr Mazey said the commission will now work with its board to ensure fair distribution across all sporting organisations.
He also clarified that infrastructure upgrades fall under the Fiji Sports Council, which has a separate budget for facility development.
A key focus, he said, will be strengthening grassroots sport through development officers across around 20 sports nationwide.
“We just must work closer together with our national sports organisations. The funding for development officers will help sports continue to grow throughout the country.”
Mr Mazey welcomed the Government’s careful approach, calling the budget “well-thought-out” and important for sustaining sport development in Fiji.
