$10 million funding for the grants, to deliver immediate and tangible on-ground activities to support Closing the Gap, were confirmed in the first Minns Labor budget handed down on Tuesday 19 September.
In launching the grant round, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs David Harris said Aboriginal controlled organisations could apply for up to $250,000 in funding for new programs, infrastructure, equipment and vehicles.
“Aboriginal organisations know what their communities need to thrive and that is why this grants program is so important,” Mr Harris said.
“It gives Aboriginal communities a direct say and direct access to funding to make tangible differences on the ground.
“We know that to close the gap, Aboriginal people must determine, drive and own the desired outcomes in partnership with government and that is exactly what this program is all about.
The Closing the Gap NSW Implementation Plan 2022– 2024 commits to drive tangible change against all 5 Priority Reform areas and 17 Socio Economic Outcome targets agreed in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Community and Place grants support communities to deliver locally led solutions. $10 million in funding is available in this round.
Applications will be assessed via a 2-step process:
- Stage 1: EOI from Monday 2 October to 30 October 2023. EOI applications will be assessed for eligibility and program alignment, with applications being approved to provide a full application by AANSW Deputy Secretary.
- Stage 2: Full applications from 4 December 2023 to 29 January 2024.
- Projects must be delivered between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025.
Closing the Gap is a top priority for the Minns Labor government. The first Minns Labor government budget delivers $1.5 billion in targeted programs across the whole of government to Close the Gap and empower Aboriginal communities across NSW.
“We know that when Aboriginal people have a direct say on issues that affect them, we get better outcomes, and that is what we intend to do in government,” Mr Harris said.
Details of the grant program can be found at Aboriginal Affairs NSW: Grants.
