The Minns Labor Government has announced a new $50 million fund that will deliver regional community connection and build up creative, industry and sporting events that boost economic development and enhance the lifestyle of regional families, workers and businesses.
Across NSW, families are choosing regional living for jobs, lifestyle and community connection. With this initiative the Minns Government is strengthening local facilities, activities and social programs that will increase social participation and economic success.
The $50 million Active Regional Communities Package will fund projects of all sizes that are smart and practical, plus embrace the uniqueness of regional communities, and embed resilience.
The Minns Government's new package delivers support through three funding streams for non-profit local community groups, local councils and cultural or sporting organisations to deliver events, programs and activities that deliver lasting benefits.
The three funding streams cover the following funding levels and project types:
- $15 million for Regional Events and Partnerships - Grants up to $2 million to support regional communities attract or develop new events across industry, sport, culture, or music; boost economic impact of existing events; improve accessibility with upgraded infrastructure. Applications open on 16 March 2026.
- $25 million for Community Participation - Grants of up to $1 million to improve access to local activities and regional connection. For example, upgrading sports grounds to competition standard; expanding cultural and community facilities; safe transport and/or staffing to expand participation in group activity and engage across a region. Applications open on 23 March 2026.
- $10 million dollars for Local Priorities - Grants of up to $100,000 to help community organisations boost well-being and social or economic participation. Funding could upgrade safety and equipment; hire skilled staff to tutor, referee or supervise; increase the frequency and range of activities; support and establish groups that support community connection and resilience. Applications open on 13 April 2026.
For information go to: www.nsw.gov.au/regionaldevelopmenttrust
This funding initiative complements the work underway by the Minns Government to boost essential services in regional NSW by abolishing the unfair wages cap, increasing pay rates and facilitating relocation for 2,700 essential workers to regional towns via The Welcome Experience program.
The Minns Government has a strong track record of funding big and small projects that make a real difference to regional communities' quality of life, including:
- Securing the NRL Women's Magic Round Weekend for regional NSW for three years - with it being held in Wagga Wagga this year, and Newcastle last year.
- Funding NSW Rugby's Tackle Life program that has delivered life changing leadership and empowering opportunities for 1,200 teenage people in western NSW communities.
- Funding an additional 151 childcare places in Broken Hill, Bourke and Cobar to enable people to get back to work or to undertake community activities.
- Funding the construction of accommodation in Queanbeyan for people living with a disability, John Fordham House, so they can live independently and engage with their local community.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
"A strong sense of community helps people stay connected and face challenges together and I am proud of the support the Minns Government is providing to enable thriving regional communities.
"The Minns Government is stepping up with additional support for local councils, clubs and organisations to deliver the facilities and support they need to remain active and connected.
"This funding will deliver major events for regional towns that entertain local audiences, attract tourist dollars, and inspire participation.
"Club secretaries, coaches, show judges, referees, players, tuck shop and BBQ volunteers are the glue that binds a village or town together and these grants will make sure locals can participate in activities that will enhance their wellbeing.
"Regional towns have infrastructure that can be upgraded or its useability expanded with this new funding so they can hold regional sporting, cultural or industry events; or improve existing facilities to make it easier for women, youth or disabled to participate.
"I encourage community and sporting groups, local councils, and major organisations to start thinking about what they can do to increase economic benefits and the fun and joy of country life."
