newy.com.au – Maitland City Council has doubled its annual Local Heritage Fund to $50,000 as it opens applications for the 2026/27 round, increasing support for owners restoring and conserving heritage properties across the city.
The funding boost, up from $25,000, was unanimously supported by councillors in February and is aimed at helping eligible projects that preserve and enhance Maitland’s heritage character. Projects funded through the round must be completed by 30 April 2027.
Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said the city’s heritage buildings and places were central to its identity and sense of place.
“Maitland’s heritage is one of the things that makes our city distinctive, and this increased funding will help support property owners to protect and restore these important places for future generations,” Mayor Penfold said.
“The Local Heritage Fund supports practical conservation works that improve the presentation, longevity and ongoing use of heritage places across our communities.”
The fund can support works including façade restoration, verandah repairs, reinstatement of heritage features and structural conservation works. Priority will be given to projects visible from public areas, those that contribute to heritage tourism and community appreciation, and works that address urgent conservation needs.
Grants of up to $5,000 are available for smaller projects, with larger allocations to be considered for high-impact conservation works that deliver strong public benefit.
Maitland has about 240 heritage items and seven Heritage Conservation Areas, reflecting its history and role in the Hunter region’s heritage tourism appeal.
Applications close on Friday, 31 July 2026. Program guidelines and application details are available at mait.city/LocalHeritageFund.
