Community Grants

Projects that align with the objectives of the Community Inclusion Plan and Cultural Plan. 

We are looking for initiatives that:

• Support innovative community projects addressing local needs and benefiting the wider community.
• Increase participation, accessibility, and the variety of community organisations for residents.
• Enhance opportunities for artists, fostering a thriving and vibrant community.
• Improve the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the local area through community-led initiatives. 

See the list of projects we've funded through the Community Grants Program.

2024 - 2025 Community Grants(PDF, 345KB)

2023 - 2024 Community Grants(PDF, 167KB)

2022 - 2023 Community Grants(PDF, 46KB)

The total grant pool for the 2024-25 program is $200,000. The maximum grant amounts per category are:

• Community Projects: Up to $15,000
• Creative Community: Up to $10,000
• Community Celebrations: Up to $7,000
• Micro Grants: Up to $2,000.

Eligible applicants include Incorporated Organisations and Associations or Registered not-for-profit (NFP) groups operating within the Port Macquarie Hastings local government area.

Organisations need an ABN and Public Liability Insurance of $20 million.

If you are not one of these types, see our FAQ - What is an auspice arrangement?

An auspice arrangement is when an unincorporated or independent group partners with an incorporated organisation to apply for a grant. In this setup, the Incorporated Organisation acts as the legal entity on behalf of the group, receiving the grant funding and taking responsibility for administering and acquitting the grant.

Although the group may carry out most of the project work, the Incorporated Organisation ensures that all financial and reporting obligations are met. This process can take time, so it’s important to start early. If you need help finding an eligible organisation to act as your auspice, contact the Community Activation Team for assistance.

Round 2 (Open)

• Applications open: 24 February 2025
• Applications close: 16 March 2025
• Successful applicants announced: 17 April 2025.

Round 1 (Closed)

• Applications open: 01 September 2024
• Applications close: 29 September 2024
• Successful applicants announced: November 2024.

All funding applications are assessed on merit through a competitive process. The elected Council awards the funding for Round 1 and Round 2 applications, while micro grants are determined by the Liveable Communities Group Manager.

Applicants must address all five of the following criteria in their application. Council will evaluate Eligible applications against merit criteria in order of relative importance as follows:

If your project involves construction, installation or upgrading a building, facility or equipment that is Council owned, leased or managed then you must provide a letter of consent with your application.

IMPORTANT

It is the applicant's responsibility to request a project consent letter from Council, it is not a part of the grant application process.  Requests can be lodged via our website at: Project Consent and Letter of Support. 

Community support is essential for your project’s success. A Letter of Support from a key community organisation shows that they consider your project important and are willing to be involved.

Include a Letter of Support with your application to demonstrate that you have discussed your project with important community members and have their backing.

What to Include:

• Name, position, and organisation of the person writing the letter.
• Name of your project.
• Why the project is important for the community.
• How the person or organisation will assist or be involved (e.g., providing volunteers, office space, promotion, etc.).
• Why they believe your group can successfully deliver the project.

Example Letter of Support

8 February 2024

Community Grants Officer

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

PO Box 21

Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Dear Grants Officer,

Re: Happy and Lucky Garden Group ‐ Autumn Harvest Festival

I am pleased to support the Happy and Lucky Garden Group’s grant application for the Autumn Harvest Festival. This project will provide Melton residents with valuable skills in growing, harvesting, and preparing fresh produce, fostering community engagement and healthy living.

As the manager of Small Seeds Garden Supplies, I have witnessed the group's positive impact on the community over the past three years. Our records show that the number of local gardeners purchasing supplies has increased by 25% annually since the group’s establishment. This growth demonstrates the community's rising interest in gardening and the importance of projects like the Autumn Harvest Festival.

The Autumn Harvest Festival is expected to attract over 200 residents, based on attendance at similar past events. Participants will benefit from hands-on gardening workshops, cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to share in the harvest. This event will not only teach practical skills but also strengthen community bonds and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Small Seeds Garden Supplies will support the event by providing free packets of seeds and seedlings to attendees. We are confident in the group's ability to deliver the festival successfully, as they did with the Kitchen Day event in September 2020, which attracted 50 residents and received excellent feedback.

In conclusion, we fully support the Happy and Lucky Garden Group’s funding request. This project will significantly enhance the health and wellbeing of Melton’s residents by fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable practices.

Yours faithfully,

Rose Vase Manager

Small Seeds Garden Supplies

All publicity and advertising material must acknowledge Port Macquarie Hastings Council by displaying our logo and/or naming us as a financial supporter / sponsor.

Invitations to the projects public activities should be extended to the Mayor, Councillors and the Community Grants Officer. 

All acquittals must be submitted within 30 days of a project being completed using our on-line form. You are required to provide Council with:

• A minimum of two high-resolution photos of the project, with consent from individuals appearing in the images.
• Copies of receipts in accordance with your submitted budget.
• Quantitative and qualitative data. The community benefits arising from your project.  For example, the number of people who attended, new connections made (e.g., for youth), and other measurable impacts. The report must clearly outline how the project benefitted the community.
• Copies of advertising and marketing of the activity.