Through the Regional Communities Development Fund, the NSW Government has invested $100 million in projects that deliver social, economic, environmental or cultural benefits to communities in regional NSW.
Key information
- Status: Not open for application
- Grant amount: Through the Regional Communities Development Fund the NSW Government has invested $100 million dollars in projects across regional NSW.
Program objective
To deliver social, economic, cultural and/or environmental benefits for regional NSW communities through funding for projects with demonstrated high levels of community support.
Funding under the Regional Communities Development Fund has been fully allocated.
This program is funded and administered by Department of Regional NSW.
Program evaluation
Building safe, enjoyable and vibrant communities: The impact of NSW Government investment on liveability and wellbeing in regional NSW.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has delivered several programs to improve life in regional NSW. These programs have supported more than 1,200 community activities and events. They have also funded 1,380 sports and recreation projects and 53 arts and culture projects. All 93 regional councils have received support.
The Regional Communities Development Fund was included in the evaluation The projects funded under the program played a key role in helping shape local communities.
The evaluation found that the projects gave people better access to community facilities and made them easier to use. They added colour and activity to towns, creating more places for fun, exercise and social and cultural connection.
These changes are helping neighbourhoods feel safer and more connected. They are also building pride in local communities. Overall, the programs delivered strong benefits worth about $406 million, meaning the investment has delivered far more value than it cost.
These documents are not completely accessible yet. If you’d like assistance or need it in a different format, please contact us at rd.rpp.evaluation@dpird.nsw.gov.au
- Outcome and economic evaluation report (PDF 5.06MB)
Summary of outcome and economic evaluation report (PDF 5.09MB)
Date of publication: December 2025