Community groups and organisations across Northern NSW can apply for grants of up to $30,000 to help older people stay active, socially connected and independent.
Applications have opened for Round 2 of the Active Ageing Grants, with $150,000 available for community-based physical activity programs.
Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) and Healthy North Coast, through the North Coast Primary Health Network program, are offering grants of between $5,000 and $30,000, excluding GST.
Community organisations, sporting clubs, councils, Aboriginal organisations, sole traders and small businesses are eligible to apply.
The funding is aimed at practical, community-led activities that encourage older people to become more physically active, improve their health and wellbeing and strengthen social connections.
Priority will be given to programs supporting people who are less active or socially connected, as well as those facing barriers including cost, transport, low confidence or limited opportunities to participate.
NNSWLHD Acting Director Oral Health and Health Promotion Graeme Williams said the grants were helping local organisations provide more opportunities for older people to be active.
“Regular physical activity is one of the best things older people can do for their health and wellbeing. It helps maintain strength, balance and independence, while also providing important opportunities for social connection,” Williams said.
“We know that many older people face barriers to getting active. These grants help community organisations create local opportunities that make it easier for older people to participate in safe, welcoming and affordable activities.”
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer Monika Wheeler said the latest funding followed the success of the first round, which supported projects across the region.
“The strong response to Round 1 demonstrated the commitment of local organisations to supporting healthy ageing and community connection across the region,” Ms Wheeler said.
“We encourage organisations with ideas that can support older people move more, connect with others and improve their quality of life to apply for this next round of funding.”
Meet Move Eat was among the organisations funded in Round 1, using its grant to expand community exercise programs in Murwillumbah, Uki and Tumbulgum.
Founder Lisa Flower said the funding had helped the organisation take its Chair Yoga and Coffee program to more older people across the Tweed Valley.
“The grant funding has enabled us to take our Chair Yoga and Coffee program to more older people across the Tweed Valley, including those who may be experiencing social isolation or who don’t feel comfortable joining a traditional exercise class,” Flower said.
“We designed the program around a simple idea: move a little, connect a lot. Participants spend an hour improving their strength, balance and flexibility, then stay for a cup of coffee, conversation and community.
“We’ve seen people arrive feeling nervous and leave with new friendships, greater confidence and a stronger sense of belonging. That’s the real impact of this funding. It isn’t just supporting physical activity, it is helping older people stay connected, independent and engaged in their community.”
Successful projects will run between January 2027 and June 2028.
Programs must be delivered in eligible areas covering Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed local government areas, as well as Urbenville in Tenterfield Shire.
Culturally safe activities supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged.
An online industry briefing will be held at 3.30pm on September 16 for prospective applicants to learn more about the grants and ask questions.
Applications close at 5pm on October 15 and must be submitted through TenderLink.
Grant guidelines, application information and briefing details are available through the Healthy North Coast website.
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