The Port Kembla community is set to benefit from improved facilities and community infrastructure, with $1 million in funding available for local businesses and community groups through the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund.
Applications for the $1 million Fund are now open, offering grants between $25,000 and $250,000 for projects designed to revitalise Port Kembla, attract visitors and build community pride.
The Port Kembla Community Fund is designed to support projects that focus on infrastructure, amenity or events that help activate or enhance the port, boost visitation, create strong community bonds and increase participation in cultural and artistic life.
The fund has delivered a range of projects including:
- Major upgrades to the Port Kembla Surf Life Saving Club to better support members and the community.
- New irrigation, drainage and returfing at the Port Kembla Pumas Soccer Club's King George V Oval.
- Major upgrades to the Marine Rescue Port Kembla including an all accessible Marine Rescue radio operator's room and refurbishment of the vessel base.
- Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce have delivered a new skate park and created large scale murals to create creative public infrastructure across Port Kembla.
Since the establishment of the fund more than $13.9 million had been distributed to 93 local projects that have delivered real community assets across Port Kembla.
The fund is designed to reinvest part of the economic benefit from the long-term lease of Port Kembla back into the Port Kembla area through community infrastructure, tourism, cultural, environmental, and revitalisation projects.
Applications will close on 2 November 2026 at 2pm. For further information about the program, including guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to Port Kembla Community Investment Fund.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
"The Port Kembla Community Investment Fund has a proven track record of backing projects that make a real difference, from sporting facilities and community infrastructure to public art and cultural initiatives.
"The NSW Government is continuing to invest in Port Kembla because we know local communities are best placed to identify the opportunities that will make a real difference to where they live.
"This new funding round will support projects that strengthen community connections, enhance local places and create more opportunities for people to come together and celebrate everything that makes Port Kembla unique."
Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast Ryan Park said:
"Port Kembla is a proud and dynamic community with a rich industrial heritage, a thriving arts and culture scene, and enormous potential for future growth.
"With more than $13.9 million invested in local projects over the past years, this program continues to deliver benefits that can be seen and enjoyed across the community."
"I encourage local organisations and businesses to think boldly about how they can contribute to Port Kembla's future and take advantage of this funding opportunity."
Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:
"From a new skate park to improving our sports fields, supporting local jobs and enhancing our public spaces this program is helping bring local ideas to life.
"These grants are helping to deliver a brighter future for Port Kembla and create lasting benefits for local residents, businesses and visitors.
"With another grant round now open I encourage community groups and local businesses to make the most of the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund."
Case Study: Port Kembla Community Skate Space
The Port Kembla Community Skate Space has transformed King George V Park into a vibrant recreational hub for local young people and families. Completed in 2025, the project delivered a purpose-built skate bowl, skate space and upgraded basketball court, creating a modern and inclusive community facility.
The project highlights the long-term impact of the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund, with the Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce successfully securing funding across multiple rounds.
The project demonstrates how the fund can support community-led initiatives over time, helping local organisations build on previous investments and deliver lasting benefits for Port Kembla residents.
Will Mitry, Committee Member with The Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce and Project Manager of the Skatepark Build said:
"The completed Community Skate Space has made our vision come to life, creating a space for active creativity, fun and community connection.
"This funding has helped create a space for kids, families and the community to gather and enjoy outdoor activities together. This skate space is bringing the community together as it supports connection across all ages and that is one of the best medicines for mental health and wellbeing".
