newy.com.au – Port Stephens Council has opened applications for its 2026-27 Community Funding Program, with grants and sponsorship now available to support local events, placemaking projects, major attractions and athletes competing at high levels.
The program is designed to back initiatives and individuals that strengthen the social, cultural, environmental and economic wellbeing of Port Stephens. The annual funding streams opening from Wednesday, 1 July, include the Community Event Development Fund, Major Event Sponsorship Fund, Placemaking Fund and Sporting Excellence Fund.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said the program was intended to help the community lead projects, reach goals and build local pride.
“Our community groups, businesses, volunteers and athletes have the passion and dedication to make Port Stephens a vibrant, successful place,” Mayor Anderson said.
“Whether it is a community event, a project that brightens up a street, a major event, or an athlete representing our region, this funding provides a financial boost and support needed to turn great ideas and hard work into reality. I encourage anyone with an eligible project or sporting achievement to get in touch with our team and apply,” Mayor Anderson added.
The Community Event Development Fund has a total pool of $50,000, with grants of up to $3,000 available for cultural celebrations, film nights and other community-led events. Not-for-profits, charities, schools, registered businesses and volunteer groups can apply, while some independent groups are also eligible.
The Major Event Sponsorship Fund is aimed at tourism experiences, sporting competitions and major cultural festivals that can increase off-peak visitation and contribute to economic growth. Sponsorship amounts will be negotiated according to the scale and impact of each proposal, with incorporated not-for-profits, charities and registered businesses invited to apply.
A new Placemaking Fund has also been introduced, aligning with the council’s recently adopted Placemaking Policy and guidelines. It offers a total pool of $15,000, with grants of up to $3,000 for eligible registered businesses, charities and community groups seeking to improve local towns, main streets and streetscapes.
The Sporting Excellence Fund will provide tiered funding of up to $800 for eligible Port Stephens athletes selected for endorsed national or international competitions, helping ease some of the financial pressures associated with high-level sport.
Applications for all four streams will be accepted year-round from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, or until the available funding pools are exhausted.
Other annual council funding streams, including the Vibrant Places Fund, Aboriginal Project Fund, Community Support Fund, Environmental Project Funds, Mayoral Academic Scholarship and International Women’s Day funding, will open later in the year.
“These investments strengthen our people, enhance our places and create opportunities that have a lasting positive impact across the wider community. That’s why we’re proud to continue supporting the ideas, initiatives and achievements that help make Port Stephens a connected and vibrant place to live, work and visit,” Mayor Anderson said.
“It’s also exciting to see the new Placemaking Fund providing support for local businesses and community groups to help shape the character of our towns,” Mayor Anderson added.
More information on the Community Funding Program and official funding guidelines is available at pscouncil.info/community-funding.
