To deliver projects that improve facilities and services to the Macleay Valley community, council regularly looks to government grants. 

The application process to win government grants is very competitive but is worth the effort as without this financial assistance councils couldn’t deliver many of the projects we do, or the community would have to shoulder more of the financial burden.

Grants are available to help deliver services including road and infrastructure upgrades; refurbishing sporting or recreational facilities; boosting tourism and employment; enhancing parks and public spaces; emergency preparedness projects; and supporting arts and cultural events that encourage social harmony and connectedness.

An important part of being successful is a strategic approach in what projects are proposed, and engaging with the community on what is important to them.

Council’s recently adopted four-year Delivery Plan has identified improvement projects in a range of locations across our shire.

In the coming months, council will be looking for the community’s views on these proposed projects and how we can work with the community to achieve substantial and lasting improvements to the services and facilities enjoyed by residents and visitors to the Macleay.

A current example of councils and the community working positively together is the joint funding application by Kempsey Shire Council and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council to the Fixing Country Roads grant program to seal Maria River Road.

This project is considered a regional priority. As well as reducing ongoing maintenance to the existing road, a sealed road would improve safety for motorists and increase tourism opportunities between the two regions.

Applications close on September 1, and the councils are working together to put forward a strong application.

Submissions from the community are welcome via: ksc@kempsey.nsw.gov.au