Bayside Council is committed to fostering a strong, inclusive, and connected community. We offer a range of financial and in-kind support to eligible not-for-profit organisations, community groups, sporting and recreational clubs, schools, and individuals.
Our grants and donation programs are designed to:
- Encourage community participation
- Enhance wellbeing and inclusion
- Support initiatives that align with Council’s Community Strategic Plan 2035 and Community Grants and Donations Policy
We particularly welcome projects and programs that support vulnerable, marginalised, or underrepresented members of our community.
Financial Support Available in 2025
Community Grants Program
Applications are Now Open
Community Grants provide financial support to help deliver programs, events, and initiatives that strengthen wellbeing, social connection, and resilience within Bayside.
Grant Categories:
- Small Grants (up to $2,000): For purchasing equipment, hosting events or activities, or developing community resources
- Seeding Grants (up to $5,000): To establish new or expand existing community, cultural, social, or leisure programs that benefit Bayside residents
Other forms of Financial and In-Kind assistance
Student Excellence Awards
Annual donations provided to primary and secondary schools to recognise and celebrate exceptional student achievements.
Donations
Council provides one-off donations across three categories:
- Youth Representation – For young people who demonstrate exceptional talent or achievement.
- Seniors Groups – Annual donations to Bayside-based seniors groups (must have at least 75% local membership).
- General Donations – For initiatives that fall outside other categories but clearly benefit the Bayside community.
Fee Waivers
Eligible community groups may receive a 50% waiver on the hire fees of Council-managed venues and facilities.
How to Apply
Applications for donations and fee waivers are open year-round and can be submitted anytime using the relevant online forms:
- Youth Representation Form
- Seniors Groups Form
- General Donation Form
- Fee Waiver Form
Applications are assessed based on merit and in line with Council’s Community Grants and Donations Policy.
ClubGRANTS Program
The ClubGRANTS program is a NSW Government and ClubsNSW initiative that funds local community projects and services. Council supports the program by managing the local application process.
Funding is available for projects in areas such as:
- Community welfare and social services
- Health and employment support
- Community development activities
- Programs improving the living standards of low-income or disadvantaged people
Note: Council does not provide direct funding through ClubGRANTS. Applications are assessed by the Bayside ClubGRANTS Committee, with funding provided by local registered clubs.
Participating Clubs Include:
- Ramsgate, Bexley, Brighton, and Kingsgrove RSLs
- Georges River 16ft Sailing Club
- Rockdale Tennis Club
- Earlwood-Bardwell Park RSL
- Rowers on Cooks River
- Graphic Arts Club
Visit the ClubsNSW website for more information.
Applications for 2025 ClubGRANTS are now closed.
Need help?
Application Support
- Download the SmartyGrants Help Guide
- For technical support, call SmartyGrants on 03 9320 6888 or email service@smartygrants.com.au.
General Enquiries
For questions about grants, donations, or fee waivers email grantsanddonations@bayside.nsw.gov.au or call 02 9366 3684.