$25 MILLION TO CELEBRATE AND CONNECT LOCAL COMMUNITIES ACROSS REGIONAL NSW

People across regional NSW can celebrate their community and reconnect with neighbours and friends at local markets, carnivals, festivals and fairs, thanks to the NSW Government’s new $25 million Reconnecting Regional NSW - Community Events Program.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole today announced the funding to help regional NSW councils host events and activities that will bring residents together and reconnect communities.

Mr Toole said these activities would also support the State’s events, hospitality and tourism sectors at a time when interstate and international visitors are returning to regional NSW.

“The past two years have been difficult, with many unpredictable events including floods, drought, bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, but we know NSW residents will come out the other side stronger than ever,” Mr Toole said.

“People have been disconnected from family and friends but now they’re getting out and about again, and we want to see communities thriving and businesses buzzing with more local activities, events and opportunities in the regions.

“This funding will help regional councils stage shows, festivals, picnics and recovery events that will reinvigorate communities, while also supporting local job creation and injecting cash into local economies.”

The $25 million Community Events Program is part of the $200 million Regional Recovery Package, designed to support economic and social recovery across regional NSW that will create new jobs and support community events, shows and festivals to boost tourism.

Applications open Thursday 7 April 2022 for events held over the next 12 months.

For further information, including eligibility criteria and program guidelines, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/communityevents