An extra $50,000 a year will be made available to community groups seeking Forbes Shire Council support.
An updated community funding program policy was presented to councillors at their August meeting, with the funding cap officially lifted to $150,000 a year and the documentation requirements simplified.
The community funding program makes grants of up to $5000 available to local groups and events - and this support is very much sought after.
Funding is available for sport and recreation; culture and the arts; community services; and rural village enhancement with up to $37,500 for each category each year.
Since the current Community Funding Policy was adopted in 2019, Council has provided up to $150,000 annually to not-for-profit organisations, sporting groups and community groups who meet the basic eligibility criteria, the report from community relations officer Sarah Savage said.
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In recent times, the council has received a significant increase in requests for donations outside of the available community funding rounds.
The updated policy has a few changes.
The need to provide an ABN has been removed based on councillor feedback, and the process has been made simpler with some of the documentation previously requested no longer required.
The council has also removed the need for groups to make a 50 per cent co-contribution for capital projects.
WHAT STAYS THE SAME
Applications will still only be accepted from not-for-profit community groups; registered charities; and organisations.
Applicants or organisations must be incorporated bodies or auspiced by an incorporated body.
Applications are now open, with this round closing 31 January 2026.
Applications for Community Funding can be submitted through the Council SmartyGrants portal online at https://forbesshire.smartygrants.com.au/
Need help with your application? Book an appointment by phoning 02 6850 2300 or email community@forbes.nsw.gov.au
