Port of Newcastle has opened applications for its annual Your Port, Our Community Funding Program, which this year will see up to $100,000 awarded to local organisations, community groups and not-for-profits seeking funding to kick-start a project or initiative that supports a vibrant and sustainable Port community.

“We are proud to play a major role in the prosperity of NSW and the Hunter. Our Your Port, Our Community funding program adds further value by helping eligible groups to deliver projects and initiatives that will support the thriving communities surrounding the Port,” said CEO Craig Carmody.

“With a pool of up to $100,000 in funding available across three categories, we are looking to support local projects and initiatives that align with the Port’s corporate social responsibility values, support local community, raise Port of Newcastle’s profile and help to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders.”

The sponsorship program supports local organisations, groups and charities to deliver initiatives or projects that benefit those who live, work and play by the harbour.

“As a significant employment and economic contributor to the region, we are proud to be able to further support our surrounding community again this year through the Your Port, Our Community sponsorship program.”

“This year, we awarded a record number of funding grants, with 15 local organisations receiving funding for a range of social and environmental programs and initiatives of Port significance or alignment, including mental health, domestic violence support, disability services, sporting initiatives, environmental projects and volunteering,” Mr Carmody said.

“With so many worthy local organisations and initiatives, we are expecting to receive a high number of applications again for this round of funding. We are pleased to have been able to increase the available funding pool this year to support demand and the high number of local organisations, community groups and charities that needs support to deliver life-changing outcomes for our community and environment.”

Applications are welcomed across three categories:

1. Our People, supporting projects that align with the Port’s values and deliver benefits to communities located within or adjacent to the Port and harbour.
2. Our Partnerships, supporting projects that foster strong relationships within the Port and community and support engagement and enablement of local community members through critical pathways.
3. Our Plant, supporting projects that provide environmental benefits to the Port and/or its surroundings.

Applications will close at 5pm on Friday January 19 2024.

“We have enlisted the assistance of representatives from our Community Liaison Group to join the judging panel for this round. We are confident that they will add another layer of insight into what matters to the community and help to ensure a broad cross section of worthy recipients are supported,” Mr Carmody said.

Applicants should visit https://www.portofnewcastle.com.au/community-and-news/grants-and-sponsorships/ to apply or gain more information about the application categories.