From Laurieton to Wilsons Creek, four North Coast community groups have won Australia Post grants to help people feel less alone and more connected.
The local winners are among 27 NSW groups sharing in more than $235,000 through Australia Post’s 2026 Community Grants program, announced to mark the start of Mental Health Month.
In Laurieton, Camden Haven Culture Aboriginal Corporation has been funded for Strong Spirits, Strong Connections: Aboriginal Youth Wellbeing Circles.
In Lismore, Rainbow Roos AU will run Growing Together: Building Connection Through Play.
Seed Northern Rivers has won funding for its Healing Hub in Mullumbimby, which focuses on mental health challenges after disasters and building capacity for the future.
In Wilsons Creek, the Wilsons Creek, Huonbrook & Wanganui Community Association will stage MURMURATION: Community Gatherings.
“Strong local networks can make a real difference to how people feel supported and connected, particularly in communities experiencing challenges,” said Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement Nicky Tracey.
“These grants are designed to back organisations at the heart of their community, that understand the people they serve and create practical ways to bring them together and support their wellbeing.”
Nationally, 81 projects will share in more than $700,000. More than half are in rural and remote areas, where access to mental health support is limited.
For the second year, extra funding was set aside for disaster-hit communities. This year, 31 per cent of grants went to projects supporting communities affected by natural disasters.
Since 2013, Australia Post has handed out more than 1,000 community grants across the country.
“We’re proud to continue investing in initiatives across Australia, including in rural, remote and disaster-affected communities where local support can be especially important,” Ms Tracey said.
The full list of 2026 recipients is available at auspost.com.au/grants.
Something going on in your part of the North Coast people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nctimes.com.au