The City of Parramatta is backing bold and diverse cultural projects across the City with $245,000 in funding awarded to local creatives and community organisations in its Annual Community Grants Program - Cultural Round.
The 2025 Cultural Round has funded 24 dynamic projects and events, ranging from immersive theatre and dance workshops to art exhibitions, heritage storytelling and cinematic spotlights on African and Filipino communities.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the grant recipients reflect the City's creative energy and contribute to Council's long-term vision to become a leading destination for arts, culture and innovation.
"Our vision for Parramatta isn't just about buildings and infrastructure - it's about people, creativity and connection. These grants reflect our commitment to celebrating local diverse stories, elevating under-represented voices and inviting the community to connect through creativity," Cr Zaiter said.
"Programs like this unlock talent, share stories and put Parramatta on the map as Western Sydney's cultural capital.
"Every project tells a unique story of who we are and who we're becoming as a City, activating our streets, theatres and community centres - from PHIVE to Parramatta Square and beyond."
Highlights of this year's grant recipients include:
- CLIPPED Music Video Premieres: Western Sydney Edition: a cutting-edge showcase of emerging Western Sydney music video creators at Riverside Theatres.
- The Oceania Ball: a celebration of ballroom culture hosted by Kai Brown and Kendall Brown on 22 August.
- "Once Upon a Grimm Night" at Old Government House: an immersive theatrical experience that reimagines Parramatta's historic sites as vibrant cultural venues.
- Goalball Championships: a national sporting event for athletes who are blind or vision-impaired, bringing Paralympians and future stars together at the King's School Sport Centre.
- Sydney Children's Choir, Parramatta Hub: a free, high-quality music education for primary aged kids at PHIVE, nurturing young voices.
This round builds on the success of the 2024-25 Community Round which saw thousands of dollars in funding support dozens of grassroots initiatives across the City.
The City of Parramatta Annual Community Grants Program is split into two rounds each year; a Community Round (July to December) and a Cultural Round (January to June).
