Holiday fun for young people

The Holiday Break program invites eligible councils and organisations to apply for funding to run events for young people.

a group of eight young people wearing protective glasses, shorts and t-shirts stand on a large grassy area. there are trees in the background. Out of frame, someone is throwing water balloons which are bursting and spraying the group
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The Holiday Break program provides free access to activities during the school holidays across all of NSW. 

The program supports young people to develop their skills, connect with others, and explore new ideas. Holiday Break activities cover a variety of interests such as sport, science and the arts.

Eligible councils and organisations can apply for funding to run activities for young people.

Holiday Break Spring and/or Summer 2026–27 funding round now open

Applications open Wednesday, 1 July 2026 at 9am and close Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 4pm.

Applicants are encouraged to design activities that: 

  • support meaningful and inclusive experiences for young people to connect with friends in their local communities, such as skill-building classes, creative workshops, sport and performing arts programs 
  • provide free access to activities outside of school in a cost-of-living crisis 
  • are for the exclusive participation of young people aged 12–24 years 

Eligible organisations can apply for both rounds in a single application. Funding can be split across the spring or summer school holidays. Successful applicants will receive one funding agreement for the program. 

An additional $2,000 per school holiday period is available for organisations delivering projects in some rural and remote parts of NSW. Check the grant program guidelines for eligibility requirements and more information. 

Apply for funding

Watch the information session

In this information session and presentation, the Office for Youth Grants team outlines:

  • key features of the Holiday Break Grant Program
  • recent changes to the eligibility requirements and funding opportunities
  • how applications are assessed
  •  practical tips to help you submit a strong application.
25:49

Holiday Break grant program Spring and Summer 2026-27 information session

This information session is for applicants to learn about the NSW Government's Holiday Break program’s key features and recent changes.

Program documents

Download Holiday Break Spring and/or Summer 2026–27 program guidelines PDF 734.82KB File last updated on: 22 June 2026.
Download Holiday Break Spring and/or Summer 2026–27 FAQs PDF 441.97KB File last updated on: 14 July 2026.
Download Holiday Break Spring and/or Summer 2026–27 budget checklist PDF 192.19KB File last updated on: 22 June 2026.
Download Holiday Break Spring and/or Summer 2026–27 application checklist PDF 168.04KB File last updated on: 22 June 2026.
Download Information session slides: Holiday Break Spring and/or Summer 2026-27 PDF 3.34MB File last updated on: 14 July 2026.

Find a free Holiday Break activity between 12–19 July 2026

 

DateTimeOrganisationActivityLocationContactEmailPhoneBooking link
13 July 202610am, 12pm and 2pmLeeton Shire CouncilWellbeing and cultural workshops across the ShireLeeton NSW 2705Sarah Stewartsarahc@leeton.nsw.gov.au0269530911 
13 July 202611.30am–12.30pmLeeton Shire CouncilReptiles on the Go at the Leeton Shire LibrarySycamore Street, Leeton Shire Library, Leeton NSW 2705Sarah Stewartsarahc@leeton.nsw.gov.au0269530911 
13 July 2026 headspace NaroomaCome along to Narooma Kinema for a relaxed screening of Minions and Monsters.Narooma, NSW 2546Jessica Boothjessica.booth@headspacebatemansbay.org.au0407698914https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/narooma/
13-14 July 2026 Stanton Library, North SydneyJoin us for a hands-on, two-day experience that blends creative expression with collaborative storytelling. No prior miniature painting or D&D experience is needed-just curiosity and a willingness to explore creativity, connection, and social engagement in a supportive environment. Strictly for young people aged 12–18 years. Bookings essential. Please ensure you can attend BOTH sessions before booking, book one ticket for each participant.North Sydney, NSW 2060Bec Shelbergkidzone@northsydney.nsw.gov.au0299368400https://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/kids-and-youth
13–17 July 20269am– 4pmBathurst & District ArtisansCome and enjoy a half or full day of free craft and creative activities.Perthville, NSW 2795Carol Dobsonpresbda@gmail.com0427 314 776https://www.facebook.com/share/18QQeJYdiF/
14 July 202611am-12pmSingleton Youth VenueAromatherapy workshop: learn how to use essential oils for wellbeing and enhance everyday life.Cnr Pitt + Bathurst Street, Singleton NSW 2330Kim McGrathyouthvenue@singleton.nsw.gov.au02 6578 7501 https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue/Whats-on-at-the-Youth-Venue
14 July 20269.30am-1pmCity of NewcastleBike maintenance classes for you to learn how to look after your bikeCarrington Community Centre, 1A Hargrave St, Carrington NSW 2297Jacqui Hicksjhicks@ncc.nsw.gov.au02 4974 2924https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/living/transport-and-parking/cycling/cycling-courses
14 July 202611am-2pm Muswellbrook Shire Council Winter Wonderland-themed silent discoMuswellbrook Indoor Sports Centre, NSW 2333Takara Belltakara.bell@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au6549 3708https://events.humanitix.com/winter-wonderland-silent-disco
14 July 20262-4pmCessnock Youth Centre and Outreach Service Step into the spotlight in this dynamic drama taster-workshop. Explore improvisation, voice and movement. Build your confidence and collaborate with others while discovering the joy of performance in a fun environment.198/202 Vincent St, Cessnock NSW 2325Niamh Walpoleyouthcentre@cessnock.nsw.gov.au02 49934355https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/drama-taster-with-tantrum-tickets-1989800576087
14 July 202611am-1.30pmAlburyCitySol Padel experience: learn how to play a sport that is like tennis and squash but easier, faster and more fun. Snacks provided.Evesham Pl, Thurgoona NSW 2640Josh Quinn youth@alburycity.nsw.gov.au02 6023 8111https://linktr.ee/thisistheretro
14 July 20262-4.30pmGlen Innes Severn Council Learn how to use different coloured felt to create an animal! Glen Innes Public and TAFE Library, NSW 2370Sari Jamessjames@gisc.nsw.gov.au02 6030 2600https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1987664417780
14 July 20262–4pmCessnock City CouncilLearn to perform: drama taster workshop with Tantrum Youth Theatre, for young people aged 11–18Cessnock, NSW 2325Elki Johnsonyouthcentre@cessnock.nsw.gov.au0401 107 413https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1989800576087
14 July 2026 Hilltops CouncilThe Hilltops Youth Action Group will bring young people together for an  inclusive fishing adventure at Wyangala Dam.  Connect, learn and enjoy the outdoors in a supportive environment for all abilities. You’ll also share experiences and encourage one another in a fun and welcoming setting.   Reg Hailstone Way, Wyangala Dam, NSW 2808Georgia Thomaidis youth@hilltops.nsw.gov.au63842418https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/
14–15 July 202610am–2pmHealthy Cities Australia Make a meal together and check out uni life! Wollongong, NSW 2500Michelle Barrymichelle@healthycities.org.au0242838111https://events.humanitix.com/learn-to-cook-youth-14th-july-2026
15 July 20266am-6pm Bland Shire CouncilSpend the day in Canberra trying rock climbing and an escape room, meeting new people, building confidence and having fun with other local young people.1/2 Essington St, Mitchell ACT 2911 and 8/160 Lysaght St, Mitchell ACT 2911Carissa Burge cburge@blandshire.nsw.gov.au02 6972 2266 https://www.blandshire.nsw.gov.au/Home
15 July 20268am-3pmDungog Shire Community CentreStep into lagoons where sharks, rays and fish swim all around you!2 Jessie Rd, Anna Bay, NSW 2316Xavier Kingmanager@dscc.net.au0249921133https://forms.office.com/r/drsLCikY9m
15 July 202610.30am-2.30pmSingleton Youth VenueDungeons and Dragons: the quest continues with this limitless tabletop game!Cnr Pitt + Bathurst Street, Singleton NSW 2330Kim McGrathyouthvenue@singleton.nsw.gov.au02 6578 7501 https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue/Whats-on-at-the-Youth-Venue
15 July 202611am-5pmSingleton Youth VenueLego Build Day: get creative, work together and make something!Cnr Pitt + Bathurst Street, Singleton NSW 2330Kim McGrathyouthvenue@singleton.nsw.gov.au02 6578 7501 https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue/Whats-on-at-the-Youth-Venue
15 July 2026 North Sydney Community CentreCreate clay sculptures inspired by Sydney landmarks while learning pottery techniques in a fun teen workshop.North Sydney, NSW 2067Rosalynde Grayinfo@northsydneycentre.com.au0299222299https://www.northsydneycentre.com.au/product-category/kids/teen-pottery-workshop-sydney-icons-in-clay-12-18-year-olds/
15 July 2026 Warren Youth Support Group IncorporatedDesign a beanie and hoodie using a cricut machine and appliques.Warren NSW 2824Kelly Sinclairwarrenyouthgroup@gmail.com0467336358https://warrenyouthgroup.au/
15 July 2026 headspace NaroomaJoin us for a fun kayaking adventure in Narooma. Narooma, NSW 2546Jessica Boothjessica.booth@headspacebatemansbay.org.au0407698914https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/narooma/
16 July 202612-2pmSingleton Youth VenueCook up: join us for a fun-filled cooking session!Cnr Pitt + Bathurst Street, Singleton, NSW 2330Kim McGrathyouthvenue@singleton.nsw.gov.au02 6578 7501 https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue/Whats-on-at-the-Youth-Venue
16 July 2026First session starts at 10:30am, second session starts at 7:30pmSnowy Valleys CouncilMovie for young peopleMontreal Community Theatre, 44 Russell St Tumut, NSW 2720Brooke Whiteinfo@svc.nsw.gov.au1300 275 782https://www.snowyvalleys.nsw.gov.au/Local-Events/Winter-School-Holiday-Movie-Day-Tumut
16 July 20261-3pmAlburyCity ‘Worlds Beyond’ virtual reality experience: immerse yourself in cutting-edge virtual reality games. Lunch provided.Evesham Pl, Thurgoona NSW 2640Josh Quinnyouth@alburycity.nsw.gov.au02 6023 8111https://linktr.ee/thisistheretro
16 July 20269am-3pmFamily Support Network Inc.A fun, free school holiday movie outing where you can relax, laugh, and enjoy ‘Napoleon Dynamite’ on the big screen with friends. Transport and lunch included.Nimbin Bush Theatre, 2 Blue Knob Road, Nimbin NSW 2480Natalie Russelladmin@fsn.org.au02 6621 2489 
16 July 20269am-3pmFamily Support Network Inc.A fun, free school holiday movie outing where you can relax, laugh, and enjoy ‘Napoleon Dynamite’ on the big screen with friends. Transport and lunch included.Nimbin, NSW 2480Natalie Russelladmin@fsn.org.au02 6621 2489 
16 July 20265–7pmPort Stephens LibrariesSilent Disco at the library after dark, including Giant Games.Raymond Terrace, NSW 2324Raymond Terrace Libraryraymondterracel@portstephens.nsw.gov.au02 4988 0111https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/july-school-holiday-program-silent-disco-library-after-dark-tickets-1986045581798
16 July 20268.30am–2.30pmHealthy Cities Australia Learn fishing skills including baiting, casting and eating! Killalea National Park, NSW 2529Michelle Barrymichelle@healthycities.org.au02 42818111https://events.humanitix.com/learn-to-cook-youth-14th-july-2026
16 July 2026 Warren Youth Support Group IncorporatedA fun evening playing games on the big screen with dinner and drinks provided.Warren, NSW 2824Kelly Sinclairwarrenyouthgroup@gmail.com0467336358https://warrenyouthgroup.au/
16 July 2026 headspace Batemans BaySpend time with therapy horses, build confidence, practice calming strategies and connect with others in a relaxed, supportive outdoor space.Batemans Bay, NSW 2536Jessica Boothjessica.booth@headspacebatemansbay.org.au0407698914https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/batemans-bay/
16–18 July 202616–17 July from 11am–5pm, and 6–9pm for 18–24 years  only, 18 July 9am–3pm Broken Hill City Council Free laser tag, inflatable ten pin bowling, challenge stations and more.Broken Hill, NSW 2880Alison Howsealison.howse@brokenhill.nsw.gov.au0408 531 226https://www.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au/Community/Events-Calendar
17 July 20269am-2pmGlen Innes Pottery ClubWinter Mud Larks is a series of free creative workshops for those aged 12–24 years. Learn weaving combined with clay, painting on clay, ceramic sculpture and pottery making in the Jōmon style.Glen Innes Pottery Club Workshop, TAFE, Grey St, Glen Innes and Cooramah Cultural Centre, Glen InnesMax Powellmax.powell@bigpond.com0401 603 322https://www.facebook.com/GlenInnesPotteryClub/directory_contact_info
17 July 202611am-5pmSingleton Youth VenueGet creative and brighten the space with colourful chalk art! Cnr Pitt + Bathurst Street, Singleton NSW 2330Kim McGrathyouthvenue@singleton.nsw.gov.au02 6578 7501https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue/Whats-on-at-the-Youth-Venue
17 July 20262-5pmSingleton Youth VenueBoard games and cards: roll the dice and bring your best game face!Cnr Pitt + Bathurst Street, Singleton NSW 2330Kim McGrathyouthvenue@singleton.nsw.gov.au02 6578 7501 https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue/Whats-on-at-the-Youth-Venue
17 July 20266-9pmGwydir Shire CouncilJoin us for an epic glow party with music, dancing, games, food, slushies, prizes and a chance to hang out with friends!The Roxy Theatre, 74 Maitland Street Bingara, NSW 2404Tori McDougalltmcdougall@gwydir.nsw.gov.au0408 454 813https://www.facebook.com/GwydirShireCouncil/
17 July 202610am-5pmGlen Innes Severn CouncilDiscover your funny side, learn the art of stand-up comedy, build confidence, make friends, develop new skills, and perform your own comedy set on stage.181 Bourke Street, Glen Innes, NSW 2370Ashley Hansell ahansell@gisc.nsw.gov.au0418 281 657 
17 July 20265–7pmPort Stephens LibrariesSilent Disco at the library after dark, including Giant Games.Tomaree, NSW 2315Tomaree Librarytomareel@portstephens.nsw.gov.au02 4988 0670https://pscouncil.info/tomaree-library-silent-disco
17 July 2026 Skate Ability An afternoon of winter holiday fun including free activities and refreshments for young people with disabilities at the Liverpool Catholic Club Sports Complex.Prestons, NSW 2170Janelle Egginsskateabilityaus@gmail.com0414973102https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1991702682338
18 July 202610.30am–12.30pmCessnock City CouncilLearn how to illustrate blue whales in a Britt’s Studio workshop for young people 12–16Cessnock, NSW 2325Elki Johnsonyouthcentre@cessnock.nsw.gov.au0401 107 413https://www.mypacc.com.au/Whats-on/26-Blue-Whales-Britts-Studio

 

Program evaluation

a man in a beige hat and over shirt looks at the trunk of a tall tree. two young people - one in an orange shirt and hat and one in a blue hat and blue shirt - look at what the man is doing on the tree trunk.

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