Community Connect
Fostering a connected, cohesive community
Overview
Community Connect is a stream of the Community Investment Program which supports activities, projects and events which enrich the lives of local residents through enhancing social connection and inclusion.
Program provisions
- Request up to $10,000 in financial support
- Request in-kind support by waiving of fees for Council venues, facilities or services
- Request a combination of funding and in-kind support
Applications for cash grants open three times annually. If you are seeking a fee waiver only, please see the relevant section below.
Are you seeking a fee waiver only?
Applicants for fee waivers need to demonstrate alignment with the eligibility and objectives of Community Connect.
Applications will close once the annual waiver budget has been expended.
To apply, please go to: Application for Fee Support
Eligible applicants
- Not-for-profit organisations
- Volunteer-based community groups and associations
- Social enterprises
- Individuals and sole traders: only when auspiced by an eligible not-for-profit applicant
Stream objectives
The objectives of Community Connect are to:
- Increase community capacity
- Increase social cohesion, connection and a sense of belonging
- Increase volunteering and community participation opportunities
- Encourage healthy and active lifestyles
Program guidelines
Full details relating to eligibility, assessment and application can be found here:
Community Connect - Application and Funding Guidelines PDF, 1369.75 KB
How to apply
Applications for cash grants may be submitted during open rounds only. Council conducts three rounds per year (this may be subject to change in future).
Dates for Round One 2026 have been finalised below. Round Two and Three will be posted at a later date.
Application Dates
| Dates for 2026 | Round One - 2026 | Round Two - 2026 | Round Three - 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applications open | 14 January | Dates TBC | Dates TBC |
| Applications close | 11 February | ||
| Assessment period | 18 February - 23 March | ||
| Funding decisions confirmed | 24 March | ||
| Investment distribution | From 1 April | ||
| Delivery period | 1 April - 30 September | ||
| Acquittal report due | 28 October 2025 |
Enquiries
If you would prefer to apply using a paper form, verbally, or in another format, please contact us for assistance.
Enquiries should be directed to the Community Development team on 9093 6677; or by email: grants@randwick.nsw.gov.au.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations are also welcome to contact Akeisha Kelly, Community Development Officer (Aboriginal Programs) on 0472 830 483.