$15.94m for Central West, Western NSW Communities

The Minns Labor Government is investing $15.94 million into 34 community-led projects in the Central West and Western NSW region helping make towns more liveable, connected and vibrant places to live.

Successful projects include support for new and upgrade sporting facilities in Cobar and Blayney, Indigenous and youth programs in Dubbo and Ivanhoe, cultural activities in Wee Waa and Broken Hill, health initiatives in Wentworth and Collarenebri and community events in Bourke and Eugowra.

For Central West and Western NSW, the funding recognises the importance of investing in community infrastructure and grassroots initiatives that strengthen social connection, support local economies and help smaller communities remain exciting places to live, work and raise a family.

The grants are part of the Minns Government's $50 million Active Regional Communities Package, which is funding 157 projects across NSW.

Together, the successful projects will help regional communities increase participation, improve access to local amenities and services, build pride of place, and create more opportunities for people to connect, volunteer, celebrate, play sport and support each other.

A connected community retains its workers and families, plus attracts essential workers such as teachers, police, nurses and vets that are critical to maintaining the vitality of regional towns.

The successful Central West and Western NSW projects include:

• $874,040 for the Pathways Together Aboriginal Corporation to deliver a culturally led community hub in Brocklehurst outside of Dubbo, creating new spaces for cultural learning, community connection and wellbeing
• $2 million for Mudgee Riverside Park expansion to deliver event-ready accommodation to support regional growth, major events and increased visitor capacity for Mid-Western Regional Council
• $1 million for Walgett Shire Councilto upgrade Walgett Sportsground with new lighting and purpose-built female changerooms, supporting safer night sport, increased participation, inclusive facilities and stronger community events
• $941,110 for upgrade to the Renshaw Sporting Complex Pavilion in Bourke with a modern, accessible all-weather pavilion, increasing community participation and supporting year-round events
• $497, 277 for improving Nyngan Showground and Racecourse precinct in the Bogan Shire for all weather event spaces and fit-for-purpose toilets
• $850,000 for Alma Institute - Broken Hill - refurbishment and upgrade community amenities The Active Regional Communities Package demonstrates the Minns Labor Government's commitment to backing local decision-making and delivering practical improvements that reflect the priorities of regional communities, including those across Western NSW.

The Active Regional Communities Package is part of more than $223 million that has been invested by the NSW Government's Regional Development Trust Fund to grow regional and rural industries, businesses and communities.

For more information, go to Regional Development Trust.

Minister for Western New South Wales Tara Moriarty said:

"Western NSW communities are at their best when people have opportunities to connect, participate and contribute to local life, and this funding is helping make that happen.

"From community hubs and sporting facilities to local events and cultural programs, these projects will strengthen the social fabric of our towns and deliver benefits that people will feel for years to come.

"The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in projects that reflect what matters most to local communities and help build stronger, more vibrant regions.

"Through this almost $16 million package, 34 locally driven projects will receive support to boost community wellbeing, encourage participation and foster pride in the places people call home."

Pathways Together Aboriginal Corporation Chair Robert Riley said:

"This project will create a welcoming community space where local people can come together, access support services and stay connected to culture and will give Aboriginal young people and families a safe place to learn, grow and build stronger connections with their community.

"The new hub will turn an unused site into a place that brings people together and makes it easier to access local services and programs.

"We're proud to be creating a space that supports community wellbeing and helps people feel connected and supported."

LeaderLife Limited CEO Johanna Leader said:

"This project will help young people build the practical skills they need to navigate adult life with confidence, from getting a driver's licence to securing housing and employment.

"By investing in skills, wellbeing, and personal growth, we're helping young people create stronger futures for themselves and their communities.

"We're grateful for the support we've received to bring this project to life and for the many stakeholders who helped shape its development.

Central West and Western NSW Active Regional Communities funding recipients: