Regional Events Acceleration Fund Round 1 Process Evaluation

The objective of Regional Events Acceleration Fund (REAF) is to boost the economic and social recovery of regional NSW after the devastating effects of COVID-19 on event venues, workers and communities by attracting new domestic and international events to regional areas and supporting existing regional major events to grow bigger and better.

This Process Evaluation assesses the appropriateness, efficiency and effectiveness of the design and implementation of Round 1 of REAF. It covers activities relating to program design, application, assessment, and contracting processes. The program had a high level of interest, receiving a total of 164 applications. 

The evaluation found that the program was well designed to complement existing programs offered by the NSW Government and early outcomes demonstrated REAF is achieving its objectives of enabling event organisers to boost event appeal as well as allowing regional communities greater access to world-class sporting, musical and cultural events and entertainment close to home. The program was generally well administered through a rolling application process and rigorous assessment process. Funding decisions were undertaken in line with the eligibility and assessment criteria. 

The findings of this Process Evaluation have been used to drive program improvements in REAF Round 2 which opened on 18 March 2022. Evaluation findings will also inform future improvements to program planning, design and delivery in other regional grant programs. 

Regional Events Acceleration Fund Round 1 Process Evaluation (PDF 2.12MB)

Date of publication: November 2022