Deadline: 20-Jan-2026
The NSW Government’s Connect IRL Grants fund initiatives that foster offline connections, mentoring, safe spaces, and pro-social activities for young people. The program focuses on reducing social isolation, building interpersonal and leadership skills, enhancing mentor capabilities, and creating long-term support networks, particularly for marginalized or geographically isolated youth.
Overview of the Program
The Connect IRL Grants Program aims to support young people in New South Wales by encouraging meaningful offline interactions and holistic support systems. The initiative emphasizes:
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Creating inclusive activities and safe spaces for peer engagement.
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Supporting structured mentoring programs to enhance interpersonal, civic, and leadership skills.
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Strengthening mentor capabilities with trauma-informed and lived-experience approaches.
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Developing long-term support networks involving families and trusted adults.
The program addresses social isolation among youth, promotes positive relationships, and equips participants with skills to thrive within their communities.
Why the Program Matters
Youth, especially from marginalized, diverse, or geographically isolated communities, face challenges such as disconnection, social isolation, and lack of support systems. Connect IRL Grants aim to:
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Foster offline peer connections in supportive environments.
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Promote mental health and wellbeing through safe discussion spaces.
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Build confidence, resilience, and civic engagement among young people.
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Equip mentors with trauma-informed approaches to provide effective guidance.
Who is Eligible?
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Not-for-profit organizations operating in New South Wales with a valid Australian Business Number (ABN).
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Legal structures may include incorporated community organizations, registered associations, cooperatives, companies limited by guarantee or shares (non-profit distributing), or Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander corporations.
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Organizations must demonstrate experience and capacity to deliver inclusive, sustainable youth support initiatives.
Funding and Grant Details
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Total pool: $2 million (exclusive of GST).
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Individual grants: $10,000 to $250,000.
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Funding is distributed through a competitive assessment process based on alignment with program objectives and ability to deliver meaningful youth outcomes.
How the Program Works
1. Project Design
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Develop initiatives that encourage offline connections and safe, inclusive activities.
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Incorporate structured mentoring programs to enhance life skills, empathy, and leadership.
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Include plans for long-term engagement and support networks with families and community stakeholders.
2. Mentor Development
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Train mentors using trauma-informed and lived-experience approaches.
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Equip mentors to support confidence, resilience, and positive relationships among young participants.
3. Implementation and Monitoring
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Execute activities that foster peer engagement, social interaction, and civic participation.
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Monitor and evaluate youth outcomes, participation levels, and community impact.
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Ensure inclusive practices that reach marginalized and isolated youth populations.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Mistake: Applying without proper not-for-profit status. Tip: Ensure ABN registration and legal incorporation documentation.
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Mistake: Focusing solely on short-term activities. Tip: Include strategies for sustainable support and long-term mentoring.
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Mistake: Overlooking marginalized or isolated communities. Tip: Target programs to include youth from diverse backgrounds.
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Mistake: Ignoring mentor training. Tip: Provide trauma-informed, lived-experience training for all mentors.
FAQ
1. Who can apply for Connect IRL Grants?
Not-for-profit organizations with a valid ABN operating in New South Wales, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander corporations.
2. What is the funding range for grants?
$10,000 to $250,000 per project.
3. How will funding be awarded?
Through a competitive assessment process based on alignment with program objectives and ability to deliver meaningful outcomes.
4. What are the program objectives?
Strengthen offline connections, build mentoring and leadership skills, enhance mentor capacity, and create long-term support networks.
5. Which youth groups are prioritized?
Marginalized, diverse, or geographically isolated young people are a key focus.
6. What types of activities are eligible?
Pro-social activities, safe spaces, mentoring programs, community engagement, and holistic support networks.
7. Are partnerships encouraged?
Yes, programs involving families, trusted adults, and community stakeholders are prioritized to maximize impact.
Conclusion
The NSW Connect IRL Grants empower community organizations to foster meaningful offline connections, mentoring, and support networks for young people. By addressing social isolation, building life skills, and developing inclusive support systems, the program strengthens youth wellbeing, resilience, and civic engagement across New South Wales.
For more information, visit NSW Government.
