Bellingen Shire Council offers a series of small community grants that are delivered and administered under Section 356 of the NSW Local Government Act 1993.
Two grant rounds are offered each financial year which is limited to Council’s yearly budget of $50,000 across three grant funds:
- Creative Placemaking Fund: Up to $5,000
- Community Support Fund: Up to $2,500 or $5,000 if the project demonstrates a high level of community benefit
- Community Event Sponsorship Fund: Up to $5,000
Important Dates
Round 1 2025/26:
- Open – Wednesday 9 April 2025
- Close – Wednesday 7 May 2025
- Notification of outcome – Thursday 19 June 2025
Grant information sessions will be held at the Bellingen Shire Libraries on:
- Dorrigo Library – Wednesday 16 April 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Urunga Library – Thursday 17 April 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Bellingen Library – Thursday 17 April 2025, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Drop in to a session to receive guidance and support for your application. This is a valuable opportunity to refine your ideas, ask questions, and receive advice to strengthen your submission.
Round 2 2025/26:
- Open – Wednesday 10 September 2025
- Close – Wednesday 8 October 2025
- Notification of outcome – Thursday 20 November 2025
Grant information sessions for Round 2 TBC.
If you can’t make a Grant information session it is strongly recommended you contact the Community Development Officer to discuss the application process and/or your proposed activity before making your application – call (02) 6655 7300 or email community@bellingen.nsw.gov.au
Make sure you read the Grant Guidelines below for each fund before applying. Guidelines contain important information about who can apply, eligible activities and expenses, required documents and assessment criteria.