Lake Mac's junior generations are primed to shine next April when Youth Week 2023 bursts to life across the city.
Applications are now open for grants of up to $1000 for events and activities during the annual national celebration of young people, to be held from 20 to 30 April, 2023.
Lake Macquarie City Council Community Planner Youth and Safer Communities Tony Ellitt said funding was available to any incorporated non-profit organisation hosting Youth Week activities or events within the municipality aimed at young people aged 12-24.
"Youth Week is an opportunity for young people to express themselves, have their voices heard and act on issues facing their generation," he said.
"It's important that youth across Lake Mac have an outlet to create and engage with events and activations that represent their ideas, aspirations and values."
Applications that aim to deliver social and cultural outcomes for youth in the community – in line with the objectives and actions in Council's Youth Strategy - will have a greater chance of receiving funding.
Grants have been offered for a variety of events in the past including skate festivals, drama workshops, fitness activities and more.
"We want engagement right across the youth spectrum and for people to think outside the box when it comes to their proposed activities," Mr Ellitt said.
Grant applications can be lodged online at lakemac.com.au before 5pm Friday 16 December.
A grants committee will meet in early 2023 to review applications, with recommendations for funding to go before Council around February.
