Round 2 Community Grants and Environment Levy Fund Opens

Published on 08 September 2025

Bellingen Landcare.jpg

Image: Successful grant recipient Bellingen Landcare

Bellingen Shire Council is excited to announce that Round 2 of the Community Grants Program and the Environment Levy Community Fund (ELCF) 2025-26 officially open from Wednesday 10 September 2025. These grant programs are a way of providing support to organisations to progress local events and activities for the benefit of the broader community.

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan stated, “The Community Grants Program and Environment Levy Community Fund give local groups, creatives and organisations the chance to bring their ideas to life, from public art and community events to projects that protect biodiversity and build a more sustainable future.”

Available funding categories include:

  • Creative Placemaking Fund: Designed to ignite participation and cultural engagement, this fund supports art projects that enhance public spaces.
  • Community Support Fund: This fund backs initiatives that strengthen local connections and benefit the community.
  • Community Event Sponsorship Fund: Supporting local events, this fund celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Shire through a range of community gatherings.
  • Environment Levy Community Fund: Supports the implementation of projects to achieve the sustainability strategic directions, outcomes and aspirations for the future of our community.

Our Community Development Officer and Sustainability Officer will host drop-in sessions at the three Shire Libraries to offer guidance and support for your application. This is a great opportunity to discuss your ideas and get expert advice to enhance your chances of success.

Library Drop-In Sessions Schedule:

  • Urunga Library - Wednesday 17 September 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
  • Bellingen Library - Wednesday 17 September 2025, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
  • Dorrigo Library - Thursday 18 September 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Due to the competitive nature of the grant programs, we highly recommend seeking advice before applying to gain a clear understanding of the expectations and how to strengthen your application. If you're unable to attend any of the drop-in sessions, the Community Development Officer and Sustainability Officer are available for assistance during business hours on 6655 7300.

Council awarded a total of $43,144 in Round 1 of the Community Grants Program and the Environment Levy Community Fund, supporting 17 diverse projects across the Shire. Funded initiatives include upcoming events such as the Taranta Festival, the Bellingen Shire Arts Trail Weekend, and the inaugural Mylestom Mollusc, as well as community infrastructure like new soccer goals and nets for Urunga Soccer Club and new nipper’s boards for the Urunga Surf Life Saving Club.

Round 2 will see $21,825 available in funding for the Community Grants Program and $10,031 for the Environment Levy Community Fund.

“We look forward to supporting new initiatives that will strengthen our community and create lasting positive impacts for generations to come,” said Mayor Allan.

If you have an idea that can enrich our community and contribute to a creative, connected and sustainable Bellingen Shire, now is your chance to apply. For more details and to submit your application, visit: https://www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/Community/Grants-and-Funding

Applications close Wednesday 8 October 2025, at 5pm.

 

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