Applications Now Open for 2026 Community Building Partnership Grants

Robert Dwyer • 21 April 2026

Applications Now Open for 2026 Community Building Partnership Grants

Community groups, sporting organisations and not-for-profit organisations across the Port Macquarie electorate are being urged to apply for funding under the 2026 Community Building Partnership (CBP) Grants program.

 

Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer today announced that applications are now open, highlighting the program as a key driver of local infrastructure investment and community development.

 

“The Community Building Partnerships grants directly benefit our community, often creating local jobs and increasing business opportunities, while at the same time enhancing local investment across the Port Macquarie electorate,” Mr Dwyer said.

 

“The program has consistently delivered practical upgrades that make a real difference whether it’s improving local sporting facilities, upgrading community halls, or enhancing accessibility for residents.”

 

The NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program provides funding for small scale infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental, and economic outcomes. The program is designed to support grassroots organisations and councils to build more resilient, inclusive, and connected communities.

 

“Projects funded under previous rounds have included upgrades to amenities blocks, installation of lighting at sporting fields, kitchen refurbishments for community centres, safety improvements, and the purchase of essential equipment that supports ongoing community use,” Mr Dwyer said.

 

Grants between $10,000 and $100,000 are available for eligible projects, with a strong focus on initiatives that demonstrate clear community benefit, accessibility, and long-term value.

 

New Two-Stage Application Process

The 2026 program introduces a new streamlined two-stage application process:

Stage 1 – Expression of Interest (EOI):
All applicants must submit an EOI outlining their proposed project, community need, and expected outcomes.

Stage 2 – Detailed Application:
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a comprehensive application, including detailed project plans, budgets, and supporting documentation.
 

Mr Dwyer said the updated process would help ensure funding is directed to projects that deliver the greatest impact.

 

“This new approach allows us to identify the strongest proposals early and work more closely with applicants to develop high

quality projects that meet community needs,” he said.

 

Important Dates

  • Applications open: Now
  • EOI closing date: 5:00pm, Friday 8 May 2026
  • Detailed application stage: By invitation following EOI assessment

Community organisations are encouraged to begin preparing their submissions early and to clearly demonstrate how their project will benefit the local community.
 

“Whether it’s a small upgrade or a larger community initiative, I encourage all eligible groups to take advantage of this opportunity,” Mr Dwyer said.
 

“These grants are about investing in the spaces and facilities that bring people together and help our communities thrive.”
 

For further information, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, visit the NSW Government Community Building Partnership program website at:

www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/community-building-partnership/community-building-partnership-2026

Robert's Media Releases

by Robert Dwyer 18 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer is urging the NSW Government to deliver a budget that balances critical infrastructure investment with support for essential community services as cost-of-living pressures continue to impact local families.
by Robert Dwyer 17 July 2026
The NSW Liberals and Nationals have announced they will reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card if elected to government in 2027, providing vital cost-of-living relief for seniors living in regional communities.
by Robert Dwyer 8 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer says the growing number of businesses relocating from New South Wales to Queensland demonstrates the urgent need for payroll tax reform to restore the state's competitiveness.
by Robert Dwyer 8 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has welcomed more than $1.27 million in NSW Government funding for the North Coast Regional Landcare Network (NCRLN), describing it as a significant investment in environmental stewardship, climate resilience and Aboriginal partnerships across the region.
by Robert Dwyer 8 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer says the NSW Government's $561 million Transport Affordability Package is being sold to the whole state, but two of its four headline measures are built for a network that doesn't exist on the Mid North Coast.
by Robert Dwyer 6 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has welcomed the commencement of tough new laws that will hold commercial landlords accountable if they knowingly allow illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products to be sold from their properties.
by Robert Dwyer 6 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has cautiously welcomed the launch of the state's new Development Coordination Authority (DCA), but says local homeowners and Port Macquarie-Hastings and Mid Coast Councils need a guarantee the one-stop- shop will actually speed up approvals in the regions, not just in Sydney.
by Robert Dwyer 26 June 2026
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer has responded to the NSW State Budget, welcoming some local investments while calling out the failure to fund Wrights Road, the Thrumster Wastewater Scheme and other critical infrastructure for the region.
by Robert Dwyer 25 June 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has welcomed a major commitment from the NSW Liberals and Nationals to deliver the most competitive payroll tax regime in Australia, saying the reforms will provide much-needed relief for small and medium-sized businesses across the Mid North Coast.
Robert Dwyer said the report highlights serious concerns around affordability and accessibility
by Robert Dwyer 27 May 2026
Robert Dwyer reports highlights serious concerns around affordability, accessibility, workforce pressures & growing compliance burden placed on providers/educators.
Show More