Every local council in NSW can sign up for up to $10,000 in NSW Government funding for free events, activities or experiences to enliven local public spaces this summer.
Treasurer Dominic Perrotett, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes and Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock launched the $1.3 million Festival of Place Summer Fun(d) program which will run from December until Easter next year.
“This funding was allocated in the 2020-21 NSW Budget to support councils with events and ideas to draw people back to their local public spaces in order to stimulate the economy,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Local businesses need our support to recover from the devastating effects of COVID-19 and this funding helps them create environments and experiences that encourage people to stay and spend local.”
Mr Stokes said the fund will help councils deliver free activities such as innovative lighting displays, outdoor markets, micro-festivals, open-air theatre, street parties, lawn libraries and street entertainment.
“The Summer Fun(d) program will help councils hold fun, Covid Safe events and create opportunities for people to connect after a challenging year,” Mr Stokes said.
“We’ve already seen how our public space programs such as Streets as Shared Spaces and Your High Street have restored confidence and helped to lift local business activity.
“This $10,000 in addition to the relaxation of planning rules for alfresco dining and local events, will give councils the tools they need to attract people to come out, shop locally, and enjoy our magnificent summer weather.”
Mrs Hancock said the program will support council and community efforts to drive a locally led economic recovery.
“Local governments work incredibly hard to create vibrant public spaces and support their local artists, performers and businesses that rely on outdoor spaces and events, and we are pleased to fund additional events and activations over summer.”
Councils can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) with a simple online form, in December or January, to boost events over Christmas and during summer.
Further information about the program and a link to the EOI is available here.