Hawkesbury City Council is inviting community groups, local representatives and grassroots organisers to step forward, with applications now open for Round Three of its 2025/26 Community Sponsorship Program.
The latest funding round, running from 1 May to 31 May 2026, is designed to back local initiatives that strengthen the Hawkesbury—whether through community connection, sporting achievement or improving access to facilities.
The program continues to play a practical role in supporting the people and organisations that underpin the region’s strong community spirit, with previous recipients using the funding to reach national and international stages, including participation in events such as the Junior Theatre Festival.
Council is offering support across three key categories:
Resilient Hawkesbury provides grants of up to $3,000 for community organisations delivering projects that build connection, inclusion and wellbeing. This can include workshops, events or programs that bring people together and strengthen local resilience.
Participation funding is aimed at individuals and teams selected to represent the Hawkesbury at state, national or international level in sport or cultural activities. Individuals can receive $150, while teams of five or more may be eligible for up to $750.
Access to Community Facilities offers practical assistance to not-for-profit groups through a 50 per cent subsidy on venue hire at Council or community facilities, capped at $750—helping ensure local groups can continue to operate and grow without prohibitive costs.
Council is encouraging a broad range of applications, with a focus on ensuring funding reaches diverse parts of the community and supports initiatives that deliver tangible local benefits.
For many community groups operating in a region as geographically spread as the Hawkesbury, programs like this can make the difference between an idea staying on paper and becoming a real, on-the-ground outcome.
Further information, including eligibility criteria and application details, is available via Council’s website or by contacting Community Planning and Partnerships on 4560 4444 or via email at council@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au.
Applications close 31 May 2026.
