Community Participation Frequently asked questions

Here are some questions relating to the Community Participation stream of the Active Regional Communities Package

Who can apply for funding under the program?

These grants are for community-focused organisations that want to deliver small to medium sized projects that help more people take part in community activities.

Read the program guidelines for full eligibility details.

What types of projects are eligible for funding?

Community Participation grants can support projects that:

enable more people to participate in community activities that improve wellbeing, social connection or economic participation
new or expanded services and programs that increase the diversity of activities available
address barriers to participation, for example improving access to activities through casual childcare and improved safety through supervision and transport
increase the amenity of activities through new and improved infrastructure and/or activation of under-used assets.

Eligible costs may include spending on:

temporary staff, programs or service providers to deliver activities or programs
non-fixed assets (e.g vehicles) and equipment that relate to the participation in the community activities, services or programs
construction costs for infrastructure development, expansion or upgrades that will increase participation.

Where does the project need to be located/delivered?

Projects must be delivered in one of the following locations:

one of the 95 regional NSW Local Government Areas (LGAs)
the Unincorporated Far West region
Lord Howe Island.

Projects located in the Sydney metropolitan area are not eligible.

A full list of the eligible locations is in the program guidelines.

If you do not own the land or infrastructure where the project will be located, you must provide landowner consent and/or access agreements.

Can I submit multiple applications?

You can submit one application for the Community Participation stream
You can submit up to 3 applications across all Active Regional Communities Package streams
Only one application for the same project can be funded.

Choose your priority projects and allow enough time to prepare strong applications.

Can I apply for more than one stream?

Yes. Eligible applicants can apply to more than one stream, but only one application per stream is allowed. Applicants should select the stream most appropriate for their project.

What project costs are eligible for funding?

Eligible project costs are listed in the program guidelines.

If you are unsure, email regionaldevelopmenttrust@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Do I need to provide a co-contribution towards the project?

Yes. Applicants must make a financial contribution of at least 20% of the total project cost. In some cases, exemptions can be considered.

How long do I have to deliver the project?

Projects must start within 6 months of the start date of the funding deed and be completed within 4 years of this date.

Project delivery timeframes are subject to the terms and conditions of an executed funding deed.

Can I begin the project before being notified of the outcome of my application?

No. Costs spent before the funding deed is signed will not be reimbursed.

However, you can begin approval processes (such as development approvals) before you receive the funding outcome.

What supporting documentation do I need to supply with application?

Each application must include the documents listed in the Application Form. A full list is available in the program guidelines.

What support is available during the application process?

Help is available for:

Technical support
Using the online application form
Guidance on completing your application

Contact the department by email.

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