Council’s Community Grants Program now open to applications

Published on 06 August 2026

Nambucca Valley Council has opened its Round 1 2026-27 financial year Community Grants Program to applications, and it is hoping many not-for-profits (nfps) will consider applying if their programs and projects can meet aspirations in the valley’s Strategic Plan.

Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee said the previous two rounds of grants in 2025-26 produced some excellent, community initiatives and that he was looking forward to seeing more grass-roots projects delivered this year.

“From February 2024 to June 2025, Council led a deep engagement process with our community to develop a 10-year Community Strategic Plan,” he said.

“One of the plan’s overarching aspirations was fostering an inclusive, safe and connected community.

“Council’s Community Grants Program is one way we are supporting our community to achieve this and backing our important not-for-profit groups and volunteers.”  

Round 1 of the 2026-27 Community Grants Program is now open to applications until 21 August 2026. Grants of up to $5000 may be awarded for eligible submissions.

Incorporated not-for-profit associations or organisations, with an Australian Business Number and plans to deliver programs or events in the Nambucca Valley, can apply. To be successful, applications are required to have an alignment to the outcomes in the Community Strategic Plan. 

Nambucca Valley Council Acting General Manager David Moloney said this year the program had been broadened to invite applications from nfps outside the Nambucca Valley Local Government Area, so long as the programs are in partnership with and benefit Nambucca Valley residents.  

“For this round of Council’s Community Grants Program, not-for-profit associations outside of the Nambucca Valley are eligible to apply for a grant, so long as their proposed project delivers real benefits within our valley,” he said.

“Last financial year we saw a whole hoard of great programs and events delivered, including a ShoreTrack Open Shed event, Circle of Parenting workshops and music and socialisation events at both Nambucca Valley Phoenix in Bowraville and Valla Beach.

“I encourage all of our local nfps to visit Council’s website and see if they are eligible to make an application by this round’s closing date of 21 August 2026.” 

For more information on Council’s Community Grants Program, visit its webpage.

ALL MEDIA ENQUIRIES TO:

Mr David Moloney

ACTING GENERAL MANAGER

02 6568 2555

DATE: 6 August 2026