Key information
- Status: Not open for application
- Grant amount: From $5,000 to $150,000
Program objective
The Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program (RAPP) is focused on delivering the NSW Closing the Gap Priority Reform 5: Employment, Business Growth and Economic Prosperity. Priority Reform 5 recognises that Aboriginal businesses are often vehicles of self-determination, driving positive employment, training, and broader social outcomes.
The RAPP Round 2 has been planned and co-designed through Aboriginal community consultation, collaboration, and partnership with both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organisations. RAPP Round 2 outcomes are orientated to achieve value for money in building the capacity of Aboriginal communities, while using established governance and accountability structures, in compliance with the NSW Grants Administration Guide, to ensure probity and transparency.
Program Objectives
The objectives of the RAPP Round 2 are:
- Build on strong connections with culture and identity to enable Aboriginal businesses and organisations to achieve positive economic, social, cultural and emotional outcomes.
- Create focused partnerships with Aboriginal young people, schools and businesses which can support meaningful and more stable employment outcomes.
- Create support for emerging and established Aboriginal businesses and organisations that will strengthen their operations and help them to grow and invest.
- Establish pathways for employment and skills development that can allow Aboriginal people to gain access to better social and economic outcomes.
- Build capacity in Aboriginal organisations and LALCs to activate Aboriginal owned land assets and support the delivery of funded projects that can ensure sustained economic betterment for Aboriginal communities.
How to apply
The Regional Aboriginal Partnership Program (RAPP) round 2 is a targeted, non-competitive grant. This means that applicants must follow the below process to apply:
- Read the Program Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact their Aboriginal Partnerships Manager in the first instance to discuss their project and obtain a link to the SmartyGrants application form. Aboriginal Partnerships Managers can help applicants prepare their application prior to submission.
This program is funded and administered by Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
Grant recipients
Recipients for this program were selected to meet the program objectives.
Eligible recipients were invited to participate and were required to meet the objectives.
What was approved
Approved for Bangguri Gadhu Cultural Tours
Bermagui Survival Day 2025 will benefit the Aboriginal community, local businesses, and visitors by celebrating Yuin culture through art, dance, storytelling, and music. Expected outcomes include enhanced cultural pride, economic opportunities for businesses, and strengthened community connections and resilience.
$23,000 was approved by
Executive Director, Regional Economic DevelopmentDate approved
December 2024Location of the project
Bega Valley Shire CouncilLocation of the recipient
South EastAbout the grant
Applications approved
24
Applications received
61
Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2
Agency funding this grant
Department of Primary Industries and Regional DevelopmentProgram term
Projects must be completed within 2 years from the commencement date of a funding agreement or funding deed.What was approved
Approved for Bara Barang Corporation Ltd
Bara Barang Corporation Ltd (‘BBC’) will develop a comprehensive business plan to activate the Raspberry Fields site, delivering on-Country programs by and for the local Aboriginal community. The business plan will align with NSW's Priority Reform 5 to support Aboriginal business growth, economic prosperity, and employment.
$50,000 was approved by
Executive Director, Regional Economic DevelopmentDate approved
December 2024Location of the project
Central Coast CouncilLocation of the recipient
Central CoastAbout the grant
Applications approved
24
Applications received
61
Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2
Agency funding this grant
Department of Primary Industries and Regional DevelopmentProgram term
Projects must be completed within 2 years from the commencement date of a funding agreement or funding deed.What was approved
Approved for Brennan Cultural Enterprise Pty Ltd T/A Waagayamba Consultants
Igniting Growth will provide Aboriginal businesses, not-for-profits, and land councils (in the Mid-North & Northern NSW Region) with virtual services including admin, project management, and financial support. Through mentoring, we will build capacity within these organisations to manage services independently, leading to sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and strengthened self-governance.
$25,000 was approved by
Executive Director, Regional Economic DevelopmentDate approved
December 2024Location of the project
Clarence Valley CouncilLocation of the recipient
North CoastAbout the grant
Applications approved
24
Applications received
61
Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2
Agency funding this grant
Department of Primary Industries and Regional DevelopmentProgram term
Projects must be completed within 2 years from the commencement date of a funding agreement or funding deed.What was approved
Approved for Dharra Jerky
Dharra Jerky’s initiative will benefit regional Indigenous communities by creating economic opportunities and promoting local suppliers. The project will expand production facilities, enhance retail and wholesale distribution, and develop new product lines. Expected outcomes include increased revenue, job creation, strengthened regional partnerships, and wider market reach for Indigenous-owned products.
$50,840 was approved by
Executive Director, Regional Economic DevelopmentDate approved
December 2024Location of the project
Dubbo Regional CouncilLocation of the recipient
Central WestAbout the grant
Applications approved
24
Applications received
61
Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2
Agency funding this grant
Department of Primary Industries and Regional DevelopmentProgram term
Projects must be completed within 2 years from the commencement date of a funding agreement or funding deed.What was approved
Approved for Euraba Paper Aboriginal Corporation
Euraba Paper Company requires a series of upgrades and renovations to the paper mill to enhance workplace conditions for artists to ensure the production of unique handmade paper and pulp art can continue throughout the year. The first stage is the installation of adequate cooling systems in mill and gallery.
$8,557 was approved by
Executive Director, Regional Economic DevelopmentDate approved
December 2024Location of the project
Moree Plains Shire CouncilLocation of the recipient
New England & North WestAbout the grant
Applications approved
24
Applications received
61
Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2
Agency funding this grant
Department of Primary Industries and Regional DevelopmentProgram term
Projects must be completed within 2 years from the commencement date of a funding agreement or funding deed.Support and contact
Applicants must contact their Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Manager in the first instance to discuss their project and obtain a link to the SmartyGrants application form. The Aboriginal Partnerships Managers can help applicants prepare their application.