Sports clubs, preschools and other Clarence and Richmond Valley community groups should consider applying for a grant under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program, according to Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.

Mr Gulaptis said applications under the popular grants program open next Monday, 2 September and fund small community infrastructure projects such as upgrades to meeting places, recreational and sporting facilities and local preschools and schools.

“This is a terrific grants stream and one of the easiest to apply for,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“There is $300,000 available in total for groups across the Clarence and Richmond Valley local government areas which form part of my electorate.

“Community Building Partnership grants have over the past few years funded dozens of small infrastructure improvements for local community groups.

“Examples from 2018 include $18,500 to upgrade the Coutts Crossing hall’s kitchen, $14,224 to provide an accessible toilet at the Coraki Youth Hall, $12,500 for playground shading at Ulmarra Public School and $19,420 for an outdoor ‘mateship’ place at Casino Community Men’s Shed.

“Grants need to be for construction of new community infrastructure, refurbishment, repair and maintenance of existing community infrastructure; or capital equipment with a minimum individual asset value of $2500.

“I urge local not-for-profit community groups and councils to apply for the funds they need to deliver projects with social, environmental and recreational outcomes.”

Applications close at 5pm on Friday 27 September 2019. Applicants must read the program guidelines to ensure their club or organisation and proposed project are eligible.

For more information about the NSW Government’s 2019 Community Building Partnership Program, visit: the www.nsw.gov.au/cbp or call Mr Gulaptis’ office on 66431244.