The NSW Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants Program provides $50,000–$250,000 to support construction, renovation and fit-out of community infrastructure that benefits disadvantaged communities. The program funds high-impact projects such as community hubs, services for vulnerable groups and essential local facilities. Its goal is to strengthen community wellbeing, accessibility and long-term resilience across New South Wales.

Overview

The NSW Government’s Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants Program supports the development and upgrade of community infrastructure that plays a vital role in delivering services, improving community wellbeing and increasing access for disadvantaged groups. This includes construction, renovation and fit-out projects that create inclusive, safe and accessible community spaces.

Program Objectives

• Fund infrastructure that meets the needs of disadvantaged communities

• Improve access to essential community services and facilities

• Support construction, renovation, alteration and fit-out of community buildings

• Strengthen local hubs in regional, remote, drought-affected and vulnerable communities

• Enhance community resilience and participation

Why It Matters

Strong community infrastructure enables local organisations to deliver critical services effectively. This program helps:

• Increase access to community hubs and safe public spaces

• Support culturally diverse populations and people with disability

• Strengthen resilience in communities affected by drought, disasters and economic challenges

• Improve long-term social inclusion and community connection

Funding Available

• Minimum funding: $50,000

• Maximum funding: $250,000

• Funding supports physical upgrades, construction work and infrastructure fit-out.

• Projects must demonstrate a clear community benefit and long-term value.

Eligible Applicants

Who Can Apply

• Not-for-profit organisations responsible for operating or maintaining the infrastructure

• Schools, if infrastructure is accessible to the public outside school hours

• Local councils (must cash-match the requested funding)

Who Cannot Apply

• Individuals

• Commercial entities that may gain financially

• Organisations that cannot demonstrate community access or benefit

• Projects with primary commercial or private outcomes

Eligible Project Types

Projects should enhance the wellbeing, accessibility and resilience of NSW communities. Examples include:

• Multipurpose community hubs

• Centres providing services for vulnerable groups

• Community facilities requiring renovation or safety upgrades

• Buildings requiring completion or fit-out to support public use

• Infrastructure that enables stronger community programming and participation

Projects must align with the needs of one or more disadvantaged groups, such as:

• Regional and remote communities

• Drought-affected areas

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

• People with disability

• Culturally and linguistically diverse groups

• Disaster-impacted communities

How to Apply (Clear Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Confirm your organisation’s eligibility under program rules.

2. Identify a community infrastructure project with measurable social benefits.

3. Prepare a detailed project plan including scope, timeline and outcomes.

4. Collect cost estimates and supporting documentation for construction or fit-out.

5. If applying as a local council, secure a cash match equal to the grant request.

6. Complete the application through the NSW Government’s online grants portal.

7. Submit all required attachments and certify compliance with governance and legal requirements.

8. Await assessment based on impact, feasibility, community benefit and alignment with program priorities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting projects that do not involve construction or physical infrastructure

• Failing to demonstrate how disadvantaged communities will benefit

• Missing or incomplete project budgets and costings

• Schools not addressing public-access requirements

• Councils forgetting to include proof of cash-matching

• Proposing projects with commercial or private benefit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What types of community infrastructure can be funded?

Facilities such as community hubs, service centres, multipurpose buildings and public-use facilities that require construction, renovation or fit-out.

2. Can a business apply?

No. Any organisation that could gain commercial benefit is not eligible.

3. Do councils need to co-fund the project?

Yes. Local councils must provide cash matching equal to the funding request.

4. Are equipment-only purchases eligible?

Not unless they form part of a construction or fit-out component of the project.

5. Can a school receive funding?

Yes, but the infrastructure must be accessible to the public outside of school hours.

6. What makes a strong application?

Impactful community benefits, clear alignment with disadvantaged groups, strong planning and feasibility evidence, and long-term value.

7. What size projects are most competitive?

Projects that are well-scoped, ready to implement and fall within the $50,000–$250,000 funding range with clear community outcomes.

Conclusion

The NSW Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants Program provides a significant opportunity to strengthen community facilities across New South Wales. By funding essential construction and renovation projects, the program enhances community wellbeing, accessibility and long-term resilience. Organisations that present well-planned, impactful and community-focused infrastructure proposals will be best positioned for success.