The State Government released a new code of conduct for Victoria's 16,000 sporting clubs and associations in a bid to stamp out poor spectator behaviour and violence in community sport.

The new code will require sporting bodies to ensure they have appropriate penalties set for clubs who break the new accord.

Sports Minister James Merlino said the government would work with state sporting bodies to develop the tough approach. He said all clubs and associations applying for sport and recreation grants would need to adhere to the new code in 2010.

Mr Berry said he expected the new code of conduct to have a big impact on Wimmera clubs, particularly football clubs.

"A lot of footy clubs would have received grants from government agencies over the journey, and they probably have some form of codes of conduct within their constitution or bylaws, but under these new guidelines they would have to be compliant with the government guidelines, to be eligible for funding," Mr Berry said.

He said it was a logical move from the government.

"It makes sense from the government's perspective that if they are going to continue to fund sport, then codes of conduct will have to be put in place," he said.

"Obviously what has happened in the past, regarding spectator abuse, has occurred at clubs that would have received some sort of funding.

"Now the government is fighting back I would say, but as is always the case the majority are paying because of the minority."

Sporting bodies who sign up to the new code will have to implement training programs to address breaches of the code by club members and supporters and set appropriate penalties for those who offend; demonstrate they have signed up to the code of conduct when applying for funding; and if there has been a breach of the code within 12 months, provide detail on what action has been taken.