Community Event Development Fund

Community events are an important factor in contributing to our cultural identity. They reflect our values, our history, our sense of place and provide a platform for our community to connect and come together.

This funding program will focus on events that create social outcomes for the Port Stephens community. Applications will be assessed on how they bring people together to celebrate, learn, share experiences and grow new opportunities.

This fund will not just provide financial support but also strategic support to help community events grow, become self-funding and sustainable.

Community events can include celebrations, street fairs, cultural and historical celebrations, film nights, street parties and fun runs.

Key dates

Applications accepted year-round from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026 or until funds are exhausted.

Funding available

A total of $50,000 is available, with up to $3,000 maximum per application.

In-kind support may also be provided for projects based on needs and opportunities identified in the assessment process.

Who can apply?

  • incorporated, not-for-profit organisations or charities
  • registered businesses with an ABN
  • schools

If you are an unincorporated community group or volunteers, you must be auspiced by a not-for-profit that is eligible to apply in their own right and that is relevant to the sector and can support the development of the proposal.

How to apply

Read the Funding guidelines for full details about applying for a grant with Port Stephens council. Give our team a call to discuss your project on 02 4988 0255 or email pscgrants@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

For more information and to apply online

Past recipients

RecipientProject
Lions Club of Raymond TerraceSeaham Carols 2022
Yacaaba Centre Information and Counselling Service Port Stephens IncorporatedYacaaba Centre Fundraiser Screening of social impact film SOME HAPPY DAY
Tilligerry Landcare/Community AssociationTilligerry Festival 2022
HopeUC Port Stephens2022 Carols at the Bay
Perception PlanningBullarama
Medowie Christmas CarnivalMedowie Christmas Carnival
Woodville School of ArtsWoodville Family Fun Night
Australian Indigenous Leadership CentreTwilight Cinema
Port Stephens FMPort Stephens FM 30th Birthday Bash
MobReady Pty LtdElders Olympics
Medowie LionsMedowie Lions Annual Art and Craft Show
UP&UPSNAK N RAP - Medowie Skate Park
Moonshadow TQCOfficial Launch Day of the 2023 Whale Watching Season in Port Stephens.

Human Whale 2023
EcoNetwork Port StephensSustainable Living Festival
Parkrun AustraliaA parkrun for Medowie
MG Car Club Newcastle Incl.Australian Hillclimb Championship