Funding available for festivals and events

The Love Lanes Festival at to Wyong in 2023. CCN archive

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris is encouraging community organisations in the region to apply for a share of $1M in State Government funding for culturally diverse festivals and events to be held in 2025 and into next year.

The Stronger Together Festival and Event Grants Program offers funding from $5,000 to $20,000 to help community groups and faith organisations to organise events that celebrate and embrace the state’s vibrant cultural diversity.

Harris said the Government’s ongoing investment in multiculturalism, exemplified by funding local festivals on the Central Coast, fostered cultural understanding and community cohesion by providing residents with opportunities to experience diverse traditions.

“These initiatives not only promote harmony but also support the viability of grassroots events, enriching the vibrancy and inclusiveness of the community,” he said.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch also welcomed the funding opportunities for the Central Coast where there are vibrant multicultural communities.

“These grants will support local groups to strengthen social connection, build harmony and celebrate cultural diversity,” she said.

“I encourage all eligible community organisations to apply and showcase the fantastic diversity we have on the Coast through festivals, performances and celebrations.”

As part of the program’s first round of funding, $500,000 is available for eligible community groups planning festivals and events between September 1 this year and March 31, 2026.

A second round of funding will be announced later this year for events running from April to September 2026.

Applications for the first round close at 5pm on Monday, July 7.

For more information or to apply, go to multicultural.nsw.gov.au/stronger-together-events-festivals/