Port Stephens Council launches new Community Funding Program

WITH over $450,000 available across various grants and scholarships, the 2025 to 2026 Port Stephens Community Funding Program offers vital financial support to community groups, event organisers, athletes, businesses and schools, dedicated to enhancing the Port Stephens region.

Mayor Leah Anderson said the launch of this year’s program ensures the continued support of initiatives that make the Port Stephens community vibrant, inclusive and resilient.

“This year, we’re really excited to introduce the Sporting Excellence Fund, giving much needed help to our talented local athletes representing Port Stephens at national and international levels,” Mayor Anderson said.

The newly introduced Sporting Excellence Fund offers grants ranging from $300 to $800, with a total pool of $4,000 available and aims to alleviate the financial burden on elite local athletes pursuing their sporting dreams.

“This fund is all about recognising our local sports stars and removing the barriers that might stand in the way of them chasing their dreams,” she added.

The Community Funding Program features 12 distinct funding streams.

Some are open all year, while others open in rounds throughout the year.

“The year round grants that are now open ensure our community has flexible access to funding when needed, allowing local talent and initiatives to receive timely support,” Mayor Anderson said.

“Whether it’s promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening community connections, or celebrating our unique culture and heritage, these grants help turn great ideas into reality,” she added.

The Community Funding Program has already delivered significant benefits across Port Stephens over the years, including:

● Community Event Development Fund: Supporting events like the Sustainable Living Festival, Medowie Parkrun, and the Medowie Lions Annual Art and Craft Show.

● Major Event Sponsorship Fund: Contributing to the success of events such as Sail Port Stephens, the Peter Wilson Memorial Cup, and the Port Stephens Pro Surfing Competition.

● Vibrant Place Micro Grants: Providing new sporting equipment to the Wahroonga Aboriginal Corporation, replacing seating for the Boat Harbour Volunteer Group, and supporting Sourdough Workshops for the local Country Women’s Association.

While many funds are open year round, Round 1 for the Aboriginal Projects Fund, Community Support Fund, and Vibrant Spaces Fund open on 1 August and close on 1 September 2025, with up to $5,000 available per application.

Other annual funds, such as the Environmental Project Fund, Mayoral Academic Scholarship, and International Women’s Day Scholarship, will open throughout the financial year.

“There’s a great cross section of funding streams available to empower applicants to reinvigorate our streets and neighbourhoods, support local businesses, and enhance the social, cultural, environmental, and economic life of our communities,” Mayor Anderson said.

“It’s a quick and simple online application form, but if you get stuck and need some help, or have any questions, contact the team to get some helpful tips for a successful application.

“We’re looking forward to seeing a range of new applications come through this year,” she added.

For full details on how to apply and to access the application forms, visit the Port Stephens Council Grants and Funding Page at pscouncil.info/grants-funding-scholarships