A new Public Art Grant will see Hills Shire streets, parks and laneways transformed into works of art, bringing creativity and vibrancy to our streets and public spaces.
The Public Art Grant was adopted as part of a review of the Hills Shire Council Grants Policy during the 9 December Council meeting to celebrate artistic expression and cultural diversity in the Shire.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said the aim of the grant was to celebrate local artists and breathe new life into The Hills Shire's public spaces.
"Public art provides opportunities to make our public spaces more beautiful, encourage community participation, and celebrate our heritage," Mayor Byrne said.
"This new funding stream also gives local artists a chance to create their masterpiece on a canvas that will be seen and interacted with by residents and visitors alike.
"Any Hills Shire location that's visible and accessible to the community can be put forward for public art. I can't wait to see what this grant creates for our community."
The Public Art Grant round is open to individuals, not-for-profit and for-profit organisations and other entities delivering public art projects within The Hills. The program aims to support projects that:
- Promote vibrant places
- increase community participation in arts and culture
- recognise the heritage and history of the area and/or community
- encourage placemaking and
- boost visitor economy.
Applicants can apply for funding between $5,000 to $50,000. All grants are required to provide dollar-for-dollar match funding.
Funding will be allocated based on the merit of each application and assessed by a panel in accordance with Council's Grants Policy.
The first Public Art Round is expected to open for applications in early 2026.
Council's Grants Policy also includes funding streams for Community Grants; Arts, Culture and Events Grants; Orange Blossom Festival Grants; and Minor Grants. The review of Council's Grants Policy also resulted in additional key changes, including:
- Changing the name of the policy from 'Community Grants Policy' to 'Hills Shire Council Grants Policy'
- extending the application period from four weeks to eight weeks
- aligning grants rounds with the financial year
- updating the guidelines to support projects across multiple schools or with a broader community impact rather than projects that benefit a single school and
- clarifying funding restrictions for staff wages to ensure grants are directed towards project delivery.
For more information, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search for 'Grants'.
