Grants program for community and sports groups opens for 20th year

April 24, 2024

Community and sports groups are invited to apply for a grant in the 20th year of the Section 356 Community and Sports Small Grants Program.

Gunnedah Shire Council Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton said the program recognised the valuable part community and sport groups played in the community, and supported existing local projects or helped fund projects that met the needs of our growing community.

“For 20 years, the Section 356 Community and Sports Small Grants Program has helped our community and sporting groups, many of whom are run by volunteers, provide programs that help make our lifestyle so diverse,” Ms Hilton said.

“Our community includes people who enjoy and excel in a huge variety of areas, from the arts to cultural activities and many sports.

“Over that two decades, the program has awarded more than half a million dollars to groups, with $290,638.54 going to community projects, and $263,640.59 going to sports projects.

“We encourage our community groups to think about their continuing projects or new ideas that might benefit both their organisation and the wider community, and apply.”

The program includes separate grants for community and sports groups, with the level of funding dependent on the project, but with a maximum of $5000 available for individual projects.

Application forms and grant guidelines are available , or more information is available by contacting Council’s Community and Social Planner, Debra Hilton on 6740 2100 or [email protected].

The 2024-2025 funding round closes at 5pm on Friday, May 31 2024.

Caption: Representatives from successful applicants for the 2023-24 Section 356 Small Grants with Cr Kate McGrath (left) and Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke (right).

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Communications team on (02) 6740 2100 or [email protected].