More than $150,000 has been awarded to 10 community organisations across Northern NSW to deliver physical activity programs aimed at helping older people stay active, healthy and socially connected.
Healthy North Coast and the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) announced the recipients of the 2026–27 Older Adults Physical Activity Grants Program, with projects set to roll out between now and 30 June 2027.
The grants, totalling $150,142, will fund programs designed for older adults, particularly those who are not currently active or who face barriers such as cost, transport, rural location, chronic health conditions or social isolation.
Initiatives include walking football, walking basketball, chair yoga, aqua aerobics, pickleball, culturally led healthy ageing programs and community fitness activities. The projects aim to improve strength, balance, mobility and social connection while supporting healthy ageing across the region.
Healthy North Coast chief executive officer Monika Wheeler said the response to the grant program highlighted the commitment of local organisations to improving the health and wellbeing of older residents.
“Regular physical activity plays a critical role in maintaining independence, preventing falls, and supporting mental wellbeing and social connection,” Wheeler said.
“These projects show what’s possible when local organisations are supported to deliver practical, community-led solutions that help older people stay active and connected.”
The program is delivered in partnership with NNSWLHD as part of a preventive health approach to reduce the risk of chronic disease and help people remain healthy for longer.
NNSWLHD acting director of Aboriginal health, oral health and health promotion Cameron Johnson said the funding would improve access to affordable and inclusive physical activity opportunities.
“By investing in programs that are accessible and culturally appropriate across our region, we can support older people to stay active, reduce their risk of injury and illness, and remain connected to their communities,” Mr Johnson said.
The successful recipients are:
- Aunty Gwen Cares – Casino Goori’s Living Healthy program – $15,000
- Ballina Coast Walking Football Incorporated – walking football program – $5,676
- Byron Shire Council – Healthy Ageing Aqua Aerobics – $16,040
- Lismore Basketball Association Incorporated – Basketball: A Game for Life – $8,150
- Maclean Football Club Incorporated – walking football program – $9,412
- Matung Kunarr Aboriginal Corporation – culturally safe physical activity program – $15,000
- Meet Move Eat – Chair Yoga and Coffee program – $27,152
- Nimbin Physical Activities Centre – exercise equipment for healthy ageing programs – $15,000
- Northern Rivers Pickleball Association – strength and balance program – $14,392
- Tweed Valley Basketball Association – walking basketball program – $24,320
Tweed Valley Basketball Association president Zac Hoade said the funding would help meet growing demand for accessible physical activity opportunities in the region.
“With almost half of the Tweed Shire’s population aged over 50, there is a clear and growing need for accessible, low-impact ways to stay active and connected. We are delighted to receive this grant funding to keep this program affordable and accessible for the entire Tweed community,” he said.
“Walking Basketball fills an important gap in our region, offering a safe and supportive environment for older residents to re-engage with the sport they love or try something entirely new. It’s about keeping our community moving, reducing isolation and ensuring that everyone – regardless of age or ability – can participate and belong.”
Applications were assessed on community need, accessibility, inclusiveness and the capacity to deliver sustainable, locally relevant programs.
A second round of the Older Adults Physical Activity Grants Program will open later this year. Organisations can register their interest at healthupnorth.info/get-active.
Further information on healthy eating and active living for older adults is available from NSW Health at nsw.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-living/healthy-living-for-adults-and-older-adults.
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