CROWN land managers and community groups that use Crown land in the Hunter are invited to apply for a share of $17 million in grants to upgrade and maintain community facilities and reserves across NSW.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said applications for the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund are open until 25 June 2021.

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“The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund maintains and upgrades reserves and community facilities on Crown land for community use,” Mr Martin said.

“This year the NSW Government will invest $17 million across the state to benefit community, recreational and tourism facilities on Crown land reserves.

“Grant applications are open to Crown land reserve managers and users including local councils, community groups, showgrounds and caravan parks, so I strongly encourage eligible local organisations to apply.

“The fund will support improvements to community facilities while supporting local jobs, businesses and the region’s economy through upgrade work.

“It will also fund bushfire management and weed and pest control on reserves.”

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said grants will support projects that can deliver social, environmental, cultural and economic benefits.

“Crown reserves play a critical role by protecting the environment and providing green open spaces for parks, ovals, walking, cycling and sports and recreation activities to keep communities healthy and happy,” Mrs Pavey said.

“They also provide affordable and secure land for a wide range of community-focused organisations including surf life-saving clubs, scouts and girl guide groups, the RSPCA, PCYC and State Emergency Services, among others.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said this year’s fund aims to help communities recover from bushfires, floods, drought and COVID-19.

“Grants are available to maintain and develop recreational and tourism facilities on public reserves for community use and enjoyment,” Mr Stokes said.

Another focus will be to support projects that contribute to greater energy and water efficiency by encouraging the use of renewable energy and water saving technologies, and environmentally sustainable practices to reduce emissions.

We are also focusing on projects that can support Aboriginal communities and interests through co-management of Crown land, and greater recognition and education regarding Indigenous cultural heritage.

For further information and to apply for a grant visit: https://reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au/funding/crif.