MidCoast Council has $1million to distribute amongst organisations and community groups across the region.

The Stronger Communities Program was established by the NSW Government to assist merged councils in kick starting a range of community-led initiatives. 

With a focus on projects that will improve infrastructure and services throughout the MidCoast Council region, up to $50,000 will be offered towards any single project over the next two years.

“As a one-off million dollar cash injection in our region, this is a tremendous and very welcome opportunity for improving infrastructure, services and facilities,” said interim general manager Glenn Handford. 

“With individuals, community groups and service clubs taking such an active role in supporting our communities in the past, we’re looking forward to working alongside them to realise future projects that will make a very real difference across all corners of the local government area.”

The $1million Stronger Communities Program will be conducted over two rounds of funding, each comprising $500,000. 

The first round is available for projects implemented in 2017 with the application period running from Monday August 29 to Friday October 7, while the second round will be for projects implemented in 2018.

To be eligible, the proposed project must address a need that has been identified in the community, and deliver social, cultural, economic or environmental benefits to the community. 

Projects valued anywhere from $5000 to $50,000 will be considered, with a maximum of $50,000 allocated to any one project over the full two years.

“It might be a new a community service, community gardens, new equipment, or upgraded facilities – there are so many possibilities and we’re hoping to see some innovative and collaborative ideas generated as a result of this fantastic opportunity,” Glenn said.

Visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/strongercommunities to find out more about the funding, eligibility criteria, and application process. You can also apply online.

The MidCoast Council team will be on hand at a number of community information sessions during the application period. 

These are designed to provide further information about the funding program, advice on what types of projects will be eligible, and assistance around preparing an application. 

The dates and venues will be published on the MidCoast Council website as soon as they are confirmed.