Council’s Community Grants Program provides key local support

For many in the local community, grant funding can make all the difference in getting a much-needed community project off the ground or keeping it going.

That’s why Council launched its Community Grants program in 2018/19. The program is designed to support projects and initiatives that deliver direct benefits to local communities and the environment of the Northern Beaches.

Council recently announced it would support the local community this financial year with $280,000 in Community Development, Arts & Creativity and Environmental grants.

This year, demand for grant funding was stronger than ever. More than $1.8 million in grant applications was received and far exceeded Council’s grants allocation in the budget.

The COVID pandemic has had an obvious impact contributing significantly to the high level of applications this year. In the past six months, Council has seen an increased demand for community-based programs and activities in the areas of mental health, community support services and in the creative sector. Applications were also higher, as it was the first year Council offered specific Arts and Creativity grants.

Council’s Community Grant program provides grants of up to $10,000 to eligible individuals and organisations to support projects and initiatives to be delivered by 31 December 2021.

Community Development Grants are an important program that contributes to the wellbeing of Northern Beaches residents. This year, 17 groups and organisations received full or partial funding for initiatives ranging from wellness and mental fitness programs to local sport programs for people with disability and for multicultural and diverse communities.

Arts & Creativity grants provide support to the arts and creative community, ensuring a vibrant, connected and engaged community. 26 individuals and groups received full or partial funding for initiatives which include support for Aboriginal artists, emerging and mid-career artists across a range of art forms including theatre, dance, digital, written and visual art forms.