Grants & Funding Opportunities

Bid Blast #27 April 2021 - Welcome to Glen Innes Severn Council’s newsletter informing committees, community groups, businesses, Council, not-for- profits and individuals of potential funding opportunities through grants and programs.

April 19, 2021

Glen Innes Highlands Glen Innes Highlands


Welcome to the latest Bid Blast


Hello to everyone. April has arrived with the cooler months approaching.

This April bid blast focuses on a selection of grant and program opportunities under the categories of:

1. Business Grants: 6 opportunities

2. Community Grants: 8 Opportunities

3. Infrastructure Grants: 4 Opportunities

4. Disaster Recovery Grants and Funding: 5 Opportunities

      - 4.1 COVID-19 Assistance: 2 Opportunities

      - 4.2 Storm and Flood Assistance: 2 Opportunities

      - 4.3 Bushfire Assistance: 1 Opportunity


Hurry! The Volunteer Grants Activity - 2021 Volunteer Grants - MP Nominations fund closes on 28 April with the NSW Regional Business Event Development Fund and White Rock Wind Farm Grants closing on 30 April 2021.


Links to further information and eligibility are provided at the end of each category listing which will direct you to the appropriate website for full details and how to apply for that grant or program.


For the 2020/2021 financial year up to 16 April 2021, Glen Innes Severn Council has had fourteen (14) grant applications approved for a total of $9,088,733 Ex GST. A further thirteen (13) applications currently submitted are pending decision for a total of $19,001,809 Ex GST. There have been three (3) unsuccessful applications for a total of $4,626,548 Ex GST.


For an update on Economic Development including grants please see the February 2021 Council Business Paper, pages 113 to 136 and 146 to 149. Click here. 

Or you can sign up to receive the Economic Development e-newsletter. Click here.


Enjoy the rest of your April.


Regards

Richard Quinn, Grants Officer

Glen Innes Severn Council



1.  Business Grants



1.1  NSW Regional Business Event Development Fund
Open: Now
Closes: 30 April 2021
Value: Up to $15,00 for each ABN
Run By: NSW Government - Destination NSW

The NSW Regional Business Event Development Fund is designed to help stakeholders create, attract and support exciting business events for regional NSW and to support new business event initiatives aimed at enriching the events with opportunities offered by iconic towns and regions while helping secure successful conferences and events for their future.

The four streams of the program are:
1. Creation of a New Business Event
2. Attraction of an Existing Business Event
3. Support for an Existing Business Event
4. Support for a Business Event Project

What level of funding is available?
Grant funding (from a pool of $500,000 excluding GST) will be offered until 30 April 2021 or until the pool of funds available has been expended. Applications will be assessed on a first-come-first-served basis until the funds have been expended. Funding is to be matched dollar-for-dollar by local communities, councils, entrepreneurs, associations, corporations, professional conference organisers or grants received by other Local, State and Federal Government Departments.

An Applicant may apply for funding based on the following scale:
• up to $15,000 (ex GST) for a business event with up to 150 delegates (projected attendance)
• up to $30,000 (ex GST) for a business event with over 150 delegates (projected attendance)

Who can apply for funding?
The Fund is open to local government, local tourism organisations, convention organisers, chambers of commerce, business events industry operators, industry associations, sole traders, corporations and professional conference organisers looking to create or host a business event in regional NSW, however political parties are ineligible to apply. Stakeholders who have previously received funding for a business event may be eligible to apply for funding under the third stream – Support of an Existing Business Event.

For information, eligibility and criteria: Click here 



1.2  Small Business Fees and Charges Rebate
Open: Now
Closes: 30 June 2021
Value: Up to $1,500 for each ABN
Run By: NSW Government – Service NSW

If you are a sole trader, the owner of a small business or a not-for-profit organisation in NSW, you may be eligible for a small business fees and charges rebate of $1500.

This rebate helps businesses recover from the impacts of COVID-19 and encourages growth by reducing the cost of running a business. Eligible businesses or not-for-profits only need to apply for the rebate once, but can submit multiple claims until the full value of $1500 is reached.

Funds can be used to offset the costs of eligible NSW and local government fees and charges. These include, but are not limited to:
• food authority licences
• liquor licences
• tradesperson licences
• event fees
• outdoor seating fees
• council rates.

The rebate can only be used for eligible fees and charges due and paid from 1 March 2021. It cannot be used for fines or penalties, fees and charges that have the key purpose of discouraging behaviours or inducing behaviour changes, Commonwealth government charges, rent on government premises, or taxes.

See the guidelines for more information. Click here. 
The rebate will be available until 30 June 2022.



1.3  Regional Events Acceleration Fund
Open: Now
Closes: 17 December 2021 or funding has been exhausted
Value: Stream One – Major Event Operations and Infrastructure - Grants between
               $50,000 and $200,000.
               Stream Two - Major Event Attraction and Enhancement - Grants for a
               minimum of $100,000.
Run By: NSW Government – Department of Regional NSW

Regional NSW is blessed with a host of world-class events attracting tens of thousands of metropolitan, interstate and international visitors to regional communities each year. 

Visitors not only spend money at the events themselves, but at local cafes and restaurants, service stations, bars, tourist attractions and accommodation; helping to boost our regional economies and create jobs in regional areas.The cancellation of major events due to COVID-19 has impacted local event venues, workers and communities who rely on the influx of visitors and tourist dollars.

To support the social and economic recovery of our regions, the NSW Government’s $20 million Regional Events Acceleration Fund helps organisations to:
• attract new major international and domestic events to regional areas
• make existing regional events even bigger and better.

Funding will help meet the costs of attracting or retaining major events, such as premier sporting fixtures or competitions, and helps fund the operational and infrastructure improvements existing events need to increase visitation and length of stay.

The types of events eligible for funding include:
• major sporting and lifestyle events
• major food and beverage events
• major music, art and culture festivals.
The funding is for events hosted in regional NSW between March 2021 and June 2022.

The Regional Events Acceleration Fund offers two streams – Major Event Operations and Infrastructure grants and Major Event Attraction and Enhancement grants.

Stream One: Major Event Operations and Infrastructure:
Grants between $50,000 and $200,000 are available to support temporary event infrastructure and operational improvements at existing regional events to help increase visitation.

Examples of the types of event infrastructure and operational improvements that are eligible for funding include:
• securing a major artist/performance to increase an event’s appeal
• additional temporary seating areas to increase capacity
• additional staging for a music festival
• establishing a pop-up camping and caravan site to support more overnight stays.

Stream Two: Major Event Attraction and Enhancement:
Grants for a minimum of $100,000 with no cap on the maximum grant application amount for the attraction, delivery and retention of major international and domestic events to regional areas across regional NSW, with a focus on major sporting events providing national or international exposure.

Applications will be assessed in terms of value-for-money and the event’s ability to deliver strong economic benefit to regional NSW.

Applicants seeking to attract or retain major events in a regional area are advised to consider holding the event in off-peak tourism periods to ensure there is enough accommodation and visitor services available. Events that are strategically scheduled to boost visitation during off-peak tourism periods are preferable.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to make a financial co-contribution to their projects and demonstrate this in their funding applications, however it is not a mandatory eligibility requirement.

Applications for funding through both Stream One and Two must meet the assessment criteria as outlined below:

Applicants must demonstrate the event:
•  will take place in one of the 93 regional NSW LGAs, on Lord Howe Island or in the Unincorporated Far West Region;
•  is regionally significant, as defined by evidence (i.e. through previous event ticket sales) or letters of support confirming the event is able to attract over 5,000 people; Events that will attract fewer than 5,000 people can demonstrate they are regionally significant by providing strong evidence of economic benefit through visitation and by providing letters of support
•  is able to stimulate the local economy by attracting visitors. A target of more than 30 per cent participation in the event from visitors is recommended, with a visitor defined as being someone who lives 50km or more from where the event is being held; and
•  has the support of the local council and the Destination Network and is aligned with the relevant Destination Management Plan.

Applicants must demonstrate they have:
• an event management plan with clear strategies for measuring and evaluating visitation and the visitor experience;
• engaged with Destination NSW and the local tourism industry to deliver effective marketing and promotion for the event;
• considered how the event can leave a positive legacy within regional NSW and provide benefit to the host community beyond the event itself;
• given consideration and can demonstrate a long-term vision for the event so it can provide an ongoing benefit to the region, such as a commitment to be held over multiple years;
• a well-structured and organised event management committee or external events company in place with access to operational and marketing expertise, and the ability to handle issues such as public liability and insurance matters;
• a risk management plan that clearly outlines strategies and processes to mitigate risks;
• sound financial management in place and can provide an event budget as part of the application;
• sourced competitive quotes for services and equipment relevant to the funding; and
• considered scheduling the event in off-peak or shoulder periods and considered if the event will clash with other major events in the region.

Further information, guidelines, eligibility and criteria for Steams One and Two: Click here. 



1.4  Ladies in Livestock Program
Open: Now
Closes: Ongoing
Run By: NSW Government – Northern Tablelands Local Land Services (LLS)

The program, funded through the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program, delivers hands-on, practical skills to women as independent land stewards with a keen interest in agriculture, to work and make decisions on properties.

Ladies in Livestock groups have been established and are now flourishing in Guyra, Inverell, Tenterfield, and Walcha and the groups draw a diverse range of women with various experiences. Topics range widely from animal health and management, marketing options, financial planning, paddock preparation, pasture selection and identification, weed identification and biosecurity management.

The program provides a supportive learning space for women who may feel less inclined to ask technical questions during mixed field days or workshops. Each group is tailored to the majority interest and production of that district. The presenters are knowledgeable, interesting and engaging. The Ladies in Livestock groups are open to any women. Meeting frequency is decided by each group and timing is considered to allow for school runs and school holidays.

For further information: Contact Northern Tablelands Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 or  to view an information youtube clip click here. 



1.5  CSIRO Kick-Start
Open: Now
Closes: Ongoing
Value: Up to $50,000 matched funding
Run By: CSIRO

CSIRO Kick-Start is a new initiative for innovative Australian start-ups and small SMEs, providing funding support and access to CSIRO’s research expertise and capabilities to help grow and develop their business.

The program offers eligible businesses access to dollar-matched funding of $10,000-$50,000 to undertake the following research activities with CSIRO:
• Research into a new idea with commercial potential.
• Development of a novel or improved product or process.
• Test a novel product or material developed by the company.

The CSIRO SME Connect team works alongside SMEs to identify the relevant research capabilities best suited to their needs, and facilitates researcher introductions and project scoping. We also assist with the application process and maintain an end-to-end engagement with the SME and researchers to ensure favourable outcomes for all parties.

CSIRO Kick-Start projects must be under 12 months in duration and businesses are required to make a cash contribution that matches the funding voucher.
Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here. 



1.6  Small Business Rebate – SafeWork NSW
Open: Now
Closes: Ongoing
Value: Up to $500
Run By: SafeWork NSW

The rebate provides up to $500 to small business owners and sole traders in NSW who buy and install equipment to make their workplace safer.
Any sole trader or small business owner that has completed an eligible event with SafeWork after 1 August 2019 has 12 months to apply for the rebate.

You need to:
1. check the terms and conditions to make sure you are eligible
2. attend a free eligible event or arrange a free advisory visit from a SafeWork NSW officer
3. buy and install eligible safety items to address a safety problem in your workplace.

Further information on terms and conditions, eligible events and eligible safety items. Click here.  



2. Community Grants



2.1  Volunteer Grants Activity - 2021 Volunteer Grants - MP Nominations
Open: Now
Closes: 28 April 2021
Value: Total of up to $132,450 is available in the New England. Between $1,000
               and $5,000 are available for eligible volunteers in New England.
Run By: Australian Government – Community Grants Hub

The Australian Government is inviting community organisations via a restricted non-competitive process to apply for a Volunteer Grant under the Families and Communities Program – Volunteer Grants Activity in 2021.

The 2021 Volunteer Grants round begins with a call for Expressions of Interest, with your local Member of Parliament (MP) using a community committee to develop a list of organisations to nominate. Following the Expression of Interest process, the MPs will nominate organisations from their lists. The nomination period is between 6 April 2021 and 2:00 PM AEST 29 April 2021.

Only organisations nominated by their MP will receive an invitation to apply for the 2021 Volunteer Grants. The application period is between 20 May 2021 and 9:00 PM AEST 9 June 2021.

The Volunteer Grants Activity is an element of the Families and Communities Program, which aims to strengthen relationships, support families, improve wellbeing of children and young people, reduce the cost of family breakdown and strengthen family and community functioning.

The objectives of Volunteer Grants are to:
• help community organisations to support the efforts of Australia’s volunteers
• help community organisations to support the inclusion of vulnerable people through volunteering
• encourage, support and increase participation in volunteering.
The intended outcome of the activity is to strengthen community functioning by increasing participation in volunteering.

Eligible not-for-profit community organisations in New England must submit their Expressions of Interest Form to Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce’s Office before 5pm Wednesday, 28 April 2021.

To download an Expression of Interest form:  Click here. 
For more information, eligibility and criteria: Click here. 



2.2  White Rock Wind Farm Grants
Open: Now
Closes: 30 April 2021
Value: Total funding amount available for 2021 is $188,455.
               Minor Grants are for applications seeking less than or equal to $5,000
               (including GST) with no minimum.
               Major Grants are for applications seeking more than $5,000 (including
               GST) with the upper limit being the maximum fund amount for the year.
Run By: White Rock Wind Farm Pty Ltd

The White Rock Wind Farm (‘WRWF’) Community Fund (‘the Fund’) has been established by White Rock Wind Farm Pty Ltd. WRWF is committed to building and maintaining positive relationships with the local community and aims to keep an open dialogue with local residents, stakeholders and the wider community throughout all stages of the wind farm lifecycle. The Fund is a key element of WRWF’s broader Stakeholder and Community Engagement Plan (the Plan). The focus of the Plan is to successfully integrate the project into the local community and to work towards equitably sharing the project benefits.

The annual allocation of funding is a voluntary contribution from WRWF and in 2018 was based on $2,500 per commissioned wind turbine, per annum. An annual indexed increase of 2.5% is fixed for the lifespan of the Fund. The funding amount available for 2021 is $188,455.

Focus areas for the fund:
Funding applications will be considered from all sectors, including but not limited to community development, the arts, education and training (including scholarships through organisations), health and wellbeing, sport, economic development, environment and sustainability.

Geographic area for the fund:
Applications will be considered for projects located within a 50 km radius of WRWF as shown on the map in Figure 1 of the guidelines. Click here for guidelines. 
Distance weighting will be applied to all projects according to the zone in which the project is located e.g. zero to 10km from the windfarm (Zone A), 10km to 20km (Zone B) etc. The applicant must list what zone the project will fall within. Preference will be given to those projects closest to WRWF. This weighting will be considered together with other selection criteria such as direct benefit to the community, demonstrated sound financial management, etc.

Funding amounts:
The Fund has two (2) grant categories:
 1. Minor Grants are for applications seeking less than or equal to $5,000 (including GST) with no minimum limit.
2. Major Grants are for applications seeking more than $5,000 (including GST) with the upper limit being the maximum fund amount for the year. For all categories, the amount requested in Grant applications must be inclusive of GST. The requested amount must be satisfactory to complete the proposed project. No additional funding will be provided once funding is awarded.

Eligibility to apply for funding:
 The following groups are eligible to apply for funding:
• Not-for-profit organisations, and
• Community based organisations.

 Projects where the core funding is the responsibility of government entities (including Federal, State and Local Government and their business entities) are not eligible to apply for funding. However, applicants of projects that have created partnerships with Local Government are eligible to apply.

Additionally, applications seeking the following will not be eligible to apply:
 1. Funding for ongoing operational costs (e.g. electricity),
2. Retrospective funding (e.g. costs incurred prior to award of funding), or
3. Components that have recurrent implications.
Individuals are not eligible to apply for funding.

Application process:
 Grant applications across the two categories can be applied for on an annual basis. The annual application process will adhere to the following timeframes for the 2021Fund allocation:
• 26 March 2021 – Applications open and advertised through local media, social media and websites.
• 30 April 2021 – Applications close at 4.30 pm, review process begins.
• 14 June 2021 – Notifications sent to successful and unsuccessful applicants. Funds distributed to successful applicants.

Organisations are limited to one application per year where they are the principal applicant.

For more information and criteria: Click here.   
WRWF CF Guidelines, WRWR under $5k and WRWR over $5k online fillable or downloadable forms are available from www.gisc.nsw.gov.au. Click here. 
Any enquiries please contact Anna Watt on 02 6730 2317.



2.3  Essential Energy Community Choices Program
Open: 12 April 2021
Closes: 10 May 2021
Value: Up to $2,500 per successful group
Run By: Essential Energy

Nominations are now open for the Essential Energy 2021 Community Choices program. Even the biggest hearts need a little boost and Essential Energy is proud to give back to our real local heroes and the grassroots organisations which support communities through our Community Choices Program.

This year Essential Energy have $175,000 in grants available across 20 zones in their network area, with funding of up to $2,500 per successful group. Glen Innes Severn is located in Zone 12. Essential Energy has also introduced a new category for groups located in small communities with populations less than 20,000. There will be 10 prizes of $500 for the groups who receive the highest votes in this category.

Essential Energy need your help to decide where support is needed most. You can have your say by nominating and voting for charities, registered not-for-profit groups and community groups that most deserve a little boost. The value of each grant will be determined by the number of community votes a nominated group receives.

 To be eligible groups must:
• Be located within Essential Energy’s network area
• Be a charity, registered not-for profit group or community group. Note that community halls run by Council Section 355 Committees are eligible, however Councils are not eligible to apply
• Be able to receive payment via EFT only
• Be able to provide content such as photos and commentary about the stories associated with the nominated applicant as requested by Essential Energy
• Provide a photocopy of either a deposit slip or bank account header (with financial details covered) showing the BSB, account name and account number for the group or hall along with their application form and
• Have a valid email address which will be used for communications relating to the Community Choices program.

Nominations opened 9am, Monday 12 April and will close 5pm Monday 10 May 2021.
Community voting will take place between 9am Tuesday 18 May 2021 and 5pm Monday 31 May 2021.

To complete a nomination for the 2021 Community Choices Program and more information: Click here. 



2.4  Strengthening Rural Communities
Open: Now
Closes: 25 May 2021
Value: Up to $10,000
Run By: Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal

The Strengthening Rural Communities program gives small rural, regional and remote communities across Australia the opportunity to access funds that can benefit and help secure their future prosperity. Grants are available for a broad range of initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities.

Applications from not-for-profit organisations in communities of fewer than 15,000 people are prioritised, particularly those communities whose size, remoteness and relative access to services, funding, and resources present particular ongoing challenges. The Strengthening Rural Communities program accepts applications any time. FRRR considers applications and makes grant distributions on a quarterly basis.

Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here. 



2.5  Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program
Open: Now
Closes: Batch One: 10 June 2021
Value: Community Grants: Up to $10,000.
               Major Grants: From $10,001 to $150,000
Run By: Commonwealth Government – Department of Veteran Affairs

The Australian Government is inviting applications through an open competitive process to apply for grant funding under the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program (the program).

The program is designed to preserve Australia’s wartime heritage; involve people around the country in a wide range of projects and activities that highlight the service and sacrifice of Australia’s service personnel in wars, conflicts and peace operations; and promote appreciation and understanding of the experiences of service and the roles that those who served have played in shaping the nation.

There are 2 categories of grants available under the program:

Community Grants (STS-CG):
Grants to a maximum of $10,000 are available for local, community-based projects and activities. These small grants are for projects and activities that are focused on the local community, commemorate the service and sacrifice of local community members, and are primarily accessed by the local community.

Some examples of CG projects and activities include:
• development of a digital honour roll
• restoration of an honour board
• purchase of a cabinet to display military memorabilia
• installation of a flagpole to display Australian National Flags on days of commemoration.

Major Grants (STS-MG):
Grants between $10,001 and $150,000 are available for major commemorative projects and activities that are significant from a national, state, territory and/or regional perspective. 

If your project involves restoring/changing a memorial, there may be heritage considerations. Information is available from your state or territory government heritage body, or at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website www.dva.gov.au. Click here.

Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here.



2.6  Dine & Discover NSW - Vouchers
Open: Now
Closes: Vouchers valid until 30 June 2021
Value: 4 x $25 vouchers for NSW Residents aged 18 or over
Run By: NSW Government – Service NSW

The NSW Government has launched Dine & Discover NSW to encourage the community to get out and about and support dining, arts and tourism businesses.
NSW residents aged 18 and over can apply for 4 x $25 vouchers, worth $100 in total.
• 2 x $25 Dine NSW Vouchers to be used for dining in at restaurants, cafés, bars, wineries, pubs or clubs. These can be used from Monday to Thursday.
• 2 x $25 Discover NSW Vouchers to be used for entertainment and recreation, including cultural institutions, live music, and arts venues. These can be used 7 days a week.

The vouchers:
• can be used at participating NSW businesses that are registered as COVID Safe
• cannot be used on public holidays
• are valid to 30 June 2021.
Note: The Dine & Discover NSW Vouchers are rolling out by Local Government Area (LGA) throughout March. You'll need to check your address before applying for the vouchers.

Eligibility:
To be eligible for the vouchers, you must:
• be aged 18 years or over
• be a NSW resident, living in an eligible Local Government Area (LGA).
If your residential address is not in this week's rollout, you'll be able to apply for vouchers within the next few weeks.

Voucher eligibility:
Each voucher can only be used:
• once (if the bill is less than $25, the remaining balance cannot be used);
• with participating businesses; and
• on or before the expiry date.

Vouchers cannot be:
• used on public holidays;
• redeemed for cash; or
• used for
: takeaway meals
: alcohol
: tobacco
: gambling
: online orders (Dine NSW Vouchers only)

For more information and to apply: Click here.  



2.7  Medical Research Future Fund – Clinical Trials Activity Initiative – 2021 Innovative Therapies for Mental Illness
Open: Now
Closes: 21 July 2021
Value: Total fund stream value of $15,000,000
Run By: Australian Government – National Health and Medical Research Council

Many Australians will experience mental illness, with estimated lifetime prevalence being up to 45%. The most common forms of mental illness include depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. 

Available standard treatments for mental illness can have variable efficacy and recovery rates, and recent novel drug discoveries have been few. There is, however, an emerging body of evidence on the use of hallucinogens or stimulant drugs supported by psychological/psychiatric care for treatment resistant mental illness.

Consistent with the Medical Research Future Fund Act 2015, the objective of the grant opportunity is to provide grants of financial assistance for Australian medical research projects that use clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of innovative therapies using hallucinogens and stimulant drugs supported by psychological/ psychiatric care for treatment resistant mental illness, compared to standard therapies.

 For the purposes of this grant opportunity, hallucinogens and stimulant drugs are defined as the drugs that are included:
• in the categories ‘hallucinogens’ and ‘stimulants’ by the Department of Health (www.health.gov.au/health-topics/drugs/about-drugs/types-of-drugs) and
 • on Schedule 8 and 9 of the Poisons Standard (www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2020L01255).

 To be competitive for funding, applicants must propose to conduct a single clinical trial that delivers against the above objectives. Applications that propose to assess psilocybin, ketamine, 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and/or related (either in chemistry or effect) supported by psychological/psychiatric care are particularly encouraged.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate a clear pathway to regulatory approvals for the clinical trial, noting Schedule 9 drugs have additional approval requirements from states and territories.

Applicants must also be aware of regulatory guidelines for the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods and be able to demonstrate how their project will align with, and contribute to, those regulatory processes.

The intended outcome of the research funded by this grant opportunity is to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians by generating new therapies for treatment-resistant mental illness. If applicants propose research that is not relevant to the desired outcome they will be considered against the assessment criteria and found to be uncompetitive. Administering Institutions are requested to ensure they only submit applications that address the desired outcomes.

Who is eligible?
To be eligible you must:
• be an NHMRC approved Administering Institution
• have an Australian Business Number (ABN)
• be incorporated in Australia
and in accordance with s24 of the Medical Research Future Fund Act 20153, be one of the following entities:
• a medical research institute
• a university
• a corporate Commonwealth entity
• a corporation (including businesses and not for profits).

Joint applications are encouraged, provided you have a lead organisation who is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply.

The Fund cannot waive the eligibility criteria under any circumstances.

Further information on guidelines, eligibility and criteria: Click here. 



2.8   Active Kids – Vouchers
Open: Now
Closes: 31 December 2021
Value: Up to $100
Run By: NSW Government – Office of Sport

Active Kids is a program to help NSW families meet the cost of getting their kids into sport and active fitness and recreation activities. The initiative aims to reduce barriers to participation and help change the physical activity behaviours of children and young people in NSW.
Every child (4.5 - 18 years’ old) enrolled in school from Kindergarten to Year 12 is eligible. This includes those who are home-schooled or enrolled in secondary school education at TAFE NSW.
Families can now access two separate $100 vouchers for each school-enrolled child. This means more kids can get involved in physical activity and learn healthy habits from a young age. The vouchers may be used with an approved Active Kids provider.

For more information and to apply:  Click here.




3.  Infrastructure Grants



3.1  Community Building Partnership Program
Open: 19 April 2021
Closes: 14 May 2021
Value: Between $5,000 and $150,000
Run By: NSW Government

The NSW Government is investing in infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental, and recreational outcomes, while also promoting community participation, inclusion and cohesion. Since 2009, the Community Building Partnership (CBP) program has awarded more than $362 million to over 16,600 projects.

 In 2021, there is a maximum of $300,000 to allocate in each electorate. Incorporated not-for-proft community organisations and local councils are eligible to apply for grants of between $5,000 and $150,000. The average grant awarded is around $20,000. 

Projects with contributions from their own, or other sources, will be considered favourably. Local councils, including their section 355 committees, are required to provide matched funding to the CBP grants.

 As total funding will be divided equally among the state electorates of NSW, applications will be assessed against other proposed projects within the same electorate.

Who should apply:
• NSW association and non-distributing co-operatives registered with NSW Fair Trading
• Local Aboriginal Land Council or Indigenous corporations registered with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations
• NSW local councils (and their section 355 committees) operating under the Local Government Act 1993. Must provide evidence of cash matching at the time of application
• Not-for-profit entities incorporated under an Act of Parliament
• Trusts that are registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC)
• Public companies limited by guarantee

What you can apply for:
CBP will consider funding requests between $5,000 and $150,000 for projects involving:
• capital works including construction of new community infrastructure as well as refurbishment, repair and maintenance of existing community infrastructure
• purchase of equipment with a minimum individual asset value of more than $5,000
• purchase of vehicle[s] with a minimum individual asset value of more than $5,000.

Assessment Criteria: 
The assessment process is competitive. Applications will be evaluated on how they address the program assessment criteria, as well as how they compare to other applications from the same electorate. 

Eligible projects will be assessed against four equally weighted program criteria:
1. Enhancing facilities: the project develops a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community through the enhancement or construction of community infrastructure. 
2. Meeting community needs: the project supports activities and services needed by local communities. 
3. Increasing community participation: the project encourages participation in activities or services needed by a broad section of the community. 
4. The organisation’s capacity: the applicant has the capacity to deliver the project on time and within scope.

Further information on eligibility and criteria: Click here.  



3.2  Community Development Grants (CDG) Programme
Open: Now
Closes: 30 June 2026
Value: Not specified
Run By: Australian Government - Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications

The objective of the CDG Programme (program) is to support needed infrastructure that promotes stable, secure and viable local and regional economies.

The intended outcomes of the program are:
• to construct and/or upgrade facilities to provide long term improvements in social and economic viability of local communities
• to create jobs in the delivery of projects and ongoing use of the infrastructure
• to improve social amenity, increased health and wellbeing and social cohesion by utilisation of the infrastructure by community groups
This program delivers the government’s election commitments and other identified projects for community and regional infrastructure.

Who is eligible to apply for a grant? 
To be eligible you must: 
• be a legal entity 
• have an Australian Business Number (ABN) or an Australian Company Number (ACN). 

Only projects identified by the Australian Government will be considered for funding under the CDG Programme.

Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here.   



 3.3   Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program
Open: Now
Closes: 31 July 2021
Value: $14,596 to $40.7699 Million
Run By: Australian Government – Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional 
                  Development and Communications

This program provides funding to Local Councils for local road and community infrastructure projects. The scope of LRCI Program Phase 2 supports a broad range of eligible projects so communities can fund the infrastructure that they need, support businesses and create employment opportunities across their communities.

The LRCI Program Phase 2 aims to continue to assist a community-led recovery from COVID-19 by supporting local jobs, firms, and procurement. It expected that councils will use local businesses and workforces to deliver projects under the LRCI Program where possible to ensure stimulus funding flows into local communities.

Local Councils who have in place an executed Grant Agreement in relation to their ‘Nominal Funding Allocation’ under Phase 1 of the LRCI Program are eligible for Phase 2.

Eligible grant activity: 

Local Roads Projects:
Eligible Local Road Projects are projects that involve the construction or maintenance of roads managed by local governments. Local governments are encouraged to consider works that support improved road safety outcomes. 

This could include projects involving any of the following associated with a road:
 • traffic signs; 
• traffic control equipment; 
• street lighting equipment; 
• a bridge or tunnel; 
• a facility off the road used by heavy vehicles in connection with travel on the road (for example, a rest area or weigh station);
 • facilities off the road that support the visitor economy; and
 • road and sidewalk maintenance, where additional to normal capital works schedules.

 Community Infrastructure Projects:

Eligible Community Infrastructure Projects are projects that involve the construction, maintenance and/or improvements to council-owned assets (including natural assets) that are generally accessible to the public. ‘Generally accessible to the public’ means that the project, or the amenity provided by the project, is generally accessible to the public at large. Some areas are clearly publicly accessible as they are areas that are open to all members of the public such as parks, playgrounds, footpaths and roads.

 Projects will also be considered generally publically accessible if they are in a location that is:
 • generally publically accessible to the wider public undertaking a specific activity (for example council operated sporting fields); or
 • generally publically accessible for a limited age group of the Community as a whole i.e. a kindergarten building; or
 • used for the provision of an essential service or community service, as determined by the Department, and the amenity of the asset is publicly accessible and benefits the community. 

All projects whether carried out on council owned land, or another type of public land, must deliver benefits to the community, such as improved accessibility, visual amenity, and/or safety. Examples of eligible works include: 
• Closed Circuit TV (CCTV); 
• bicycle and walking paths; 
• painting or improvements to community facilities; 
• repairing and replacing fencing; 
 • improved accessibility of community facilities and areas;
 • landscaping improvements, such as tree planting and beautification of 
   roundabouts
 • picnic shelters or barbeque facilities at community parks; 
 • community/public art associated with an Eligible Project ( Eligible Funding 
   Recipients will need to provide a clear description of the conceptual basis of the 
   artwork);
 • playgrounds and skate parks (including all ability playgrounds); 
 • noise and vibration mitigation measures; and 
 • off-road car parks (such as those at sporting grounds or parks).

 Other Public Land:

 Projects that involve the construction, maintenance and/or improvements to state/territory and crown owned land/assets and Commonwealth owned land/assets, can also be eligible projects where the Council can confirm that they have the authority of the land or asset owner to undertake the project at the nominated site(s) and the sites are accessible to the public (including natural assets).

Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here.  


                                                  
3.4  ClubGrants Category 3 Fund – Infrastructure
Open: Now
Closes: Not specified
Value: Arts & Culture: $50,000 to $200,000 available per project
               Community Infrastructure: $10,000 to $200,000 available per project
               Disaster Readiness: $10,000 to $200,000 available per project
               Sport & Recreation: $50,000 to $300,000 available per project
Run By: NSW Government – Office of Responsible Gambling

The NSW Government offers grants to communities across NSW to support the building, renovation and fit-out of infrastructure. Funding is available for sport and recreation and arts and cultural infrastructure as well as projects that assist communities with essential infrastructure and disaster readiness. Infrastructure Grants are made possible by reinvesting a rebate on gaming machine profits from the state’s registered clubs, known as the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund.

Infrastructure Grants can be used toward the costs of construction, alteration, renovation, completion and fit-out of buildings and community infrastructure in the following areas:
• Arts & Culture
• Community Infrastructure
• Disaster Readiness
• Sport & Recreation

Infrastructure Grants can also be used for costs such the purchase of capital equipment and professional fees.
Examples of projects range from local sports ground facilities, public swimming pools, children’s play areas, museums, art galleries, theatres and upgrades to evacuation centres, or community welfare infrastructure that supports youth, mental health or homelessness services.

Applicants must be a not-for-profit organisation with an ABN that is responsible for operating and/or maintaining the infrastructure.
Applicants must show the benefit that the infrastructure is accessible and available to the general public the majority of the time.

Financial contributions
: Local government applicants are required to cash-match the funding amount requested.

The Infrastructure Grants process is competitive. Each year the program receives more applications than can be supported and, in some instances, partial funding may be offered.

Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here.




4. Disaster Recovery Grants and Funding



4.1 Storm and Flood Assistance


4.1.1 NSW Storms and Floods: 10 March 2021 - Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment

Open: Now

Closes: 28 September 2021

Value: $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child

Run By: Australian Government


The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) provides one-off financial assistance to eligible Australians adversely affected by the storms and floods.

The rate of AGDRP is $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child. Claims for this payment can be lodged with Services Australia for a period up to 6 months.


AGDRP is available for people who have been seriously injured, have lost their homes or whose homes have been directly damaged, whose major assets have been directly damaged or are the immediate family members of a person who has died as a direct result of the storms and floods.


Glen Innes Severn LGA is included in the sixty-four (64) eligible local government areas. You have until 28 September 2021 to lodge a claim for AGDRP.


For more information on eligibility: Click Here.

Or contact the Australian Government Information Hotline on 180 22 66 for claims assistance.




4.1.2   Joint Commonwealth-State-Territory Governments Disaster Recovery 

              Funding Arrangements (DRFA)

Open: Now

Closes: Not specified

Value: Not specified

Run By: Joint Commonwealth-State-Territory Governments Disaster Recovery 

                  Funding Arrangements (DRFA)


The joint Australian, state and territory governments' Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) provide a range of financial assistance to the natural disaster-declared areas in each state or territory.


For the north coast storms and floods from 10 March 2021 onwards the available assistance measures include:

• Personal hardship and distress assistance

• Counter disaster operations

• Restoration of damaged essential public assets

• Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations

• Freight subsidies for primary producers

• Grants for non-profit organisations


Assistance may be available for the Glen Innes Severn LGA.


For information on available recovery assistance: Click here. 

For further information on recovery arrangements: Click here 


The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will replace passports that have been lost or damaged in declared natural disasters free of charge: 

Click here.




4.2 COVID -19 Assistance


4.2.1  COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program

Open: Expected late April 2021

Closes: Expected June 2021

Value: $7,500 up to a maximum of $100,000 for each successful applicant.

Run By: Australian Government – Tourism and Business


On 11 March 2021, the Australian Government announced a second round of the COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program. An additional $130 million has been provided under Round Two to help give eligible travel agents breathing space to facilitate customer refunds, and follow up travel credits. Several adjustments will be made to this second round to take into account industry feedback. Round Two is expected to open in late April 2021.


Changes under Round Two of the Program:


The Government will continue to consult with industry to finalise the conditions of Round Two. However key changes include:

1. Simplifying the assessment and payment process for businesses eligible for a second payment under the program.

2. Increasing the payment amounts, from $7,500 up to a maximum of $100,000 (maximum payment amount is unchanged).

3. Reducing the number of turnover tiers used to calculate payments, from 41 in Round One to nine in Round Two.


Eligibility under Round Two:


The objective of Round Two of the Program is to provide travel agents and inbound tour operators and tour wholesalers (tour arrangement service providers, consistent with ANZSIC code 7220) who qualified for Round One of the Program, a second grant payment. This payment will assist these businesses to continue to meet their legal obligations to credit and refund Australian consumers unable to travel due to COVID-19. Eligibility requirements include:

• The business has been operating a business as either a travel agent or inbound tour operator, and tour wholesaler (tour arrangement service provider, consistent with ANZSIC code 7220), prior to the announcement of the closure of international borders by the Prime Minister on 19 March 2020, and is continuing to operate that business; and

• Had a turnover of between $50,000 and $20 million (which can equate to a Total Transaction Value (TTV) of between $500,000 and $200 million) for the 2019 calendar year; and

• Was in receipt of the extension of the JobKeeper payment from 28 September 2020 to 28 March 2021.

• Have qualified and received a payment under Round One of the Program;

• Sign a declaration that your business is solvent as at the opening date of Round Two of the program, that you intend to continue to operate your business throughout the June quarter 2021, and make best endeavours to retain your staff; and

• Commit to continue to trade and to meet your businesses obligations including to process refunds and travel credits to Australian consumers and to continue to provide services to your customers.


Additional verification points under Round 2 include:

• Applicants whose appeals are upheld under Round One of the program (including those with TTV greater than $20m but turnover less than $20 million) will be eligible for Round Two. The turnover used to determine the Round One payment will be the basis of any Round Two payment.

• Eligible applicants who recorded and were assessed on a turnover of $500,000 or more under Round One will be subject to an additional assessment by Austrade. Those found to have received a payment based on TTV in Round One that was greater than they would otherwise have received if the payments for Round One and Two were calculated on turnover, will not be eligible for a Round Two payment.


Consideration is also being given to the circumstances of mid-sized agents who operate multiple outlets under a single ABN.

Please refer to the COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program Guidelines in the section below for Round One (available now) and Round Two (available shortly) for the full eligibility criteria.


For further information: Click here.



4.2.2  Business Connect

Open: Now

Closes: Ongoing

Value: Advice and Support

Run By: NSW Government


Whether you are just starting out with a great business idea or looking to expand and grow your business, Business Connect services can help you on your journey to business success. Business Connect is a dedicated and personalised NSW Government program that provides trusted advice to help you start or grow your small business.


You can access free business advice and webinars including:


• developing a customised recovery strategy

• managing your cashflow

• accessing finance including grants and loans

• marketing your business to reach new customers

• connecting to other government support and local professional services.


For access to free business advice and webinars: Click here.




4.3  Bushfire Assistance


4.3.1  Public Land Boundary Fencing Program

Open: Now

Closes: 30 June 2021

Value: Up to $5,000 per Km

Run By: NSW Government - Local Land Services


Private landholders who share a boundary with public land and were impacted by the Northern and Southern fires of late 2019 and early 2020 are eligible to receive up to $5,000 per kilometre to contribute to the replacement of damaged boundary fences adjoining public lands.


Note that for the purposes of this grant, public lands includes:

• National parks

• Forestry Corporation land

• Travelling stock reserves

• Crown reserves, tenured roads and leases

• Roads managed by Roads and Maritime Services or Local Government.


Grants can be issued retrospectively to cover costs already incurred by landholders replacing fire damaged fencing where a boundary is shared with public lands.


Further information, eligibility and criteria: Click here.




Disclaimer: Information for this Bid Blast sourced from www.grants.gov.au, www.business.gov.au, Regional Development Australia Northern Inland, NSW Government – Destination NSW, CSIRO, SafeWork NSW, NSW Government – Local Land Services, Australian Government – Community Grant Hub, Glen Innes Severn Council, Essential Energy, Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, Australian Government – Department of Veteran Affairs, NSW Government – Services NSW, nsw Government – Office of Sport, Australian Government – Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, NSW Government – Office of Responsible Gaming, Australian Government – Tourism and Business, NSW Government – Resilience NSW, Joint Commonwealth-State-Territory Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).


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Glen Innes Highlands acknowledges and pays respect to the Ngarabul people as the traditional custodians of this land, their elders past, present and emerging, and to Torres Strait Islander people and all First Nations people.

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