A community funding program that has been running in the Gunnedah community for more than two decades could be about to award its last grant.
Gunnedah Shire Council last week confirmed that funding for the unpopular Section 356 (Community and Sports) Small Grants Program will be suspended pending a review of its effectiveness.
The review will take effect on the completion of the program’s current funding round which is open for applications until mid-October.
Gunnedah shire councillors recently agreed that “no further Section 356 further funding round be undertaken until the program is reviewed by council in consultation with council staff, outlining options which better target community support and that the review be undertaken by March 2026”.
Councillor Tammey McAllan was part of the assessment panel for the last allocation of grants funding.
She agreed the program would benefit from a review as council received few applications in a recent funding round.
“Last time we did not have many applying,” Cr McAllan said.
Since the grant program’s inception 21 years ago, council said almost $600,000 has been awarded to initiatives that support not-for-profit, charitable, community and sporting groups. But following the July introduction of a 37 per cent special rate variation for the Gunnedah shire, all possible efficiencies are on the table for consideration.
Councillor Rob Hooke said it was good governance for council to ensure the program is still achieving its intended aims.
“It’s time to review and see if we can support the community in a better way,” he said.
Councillor Juliana McArthur suggested a “timeframe” be stated for when the program would be reviewed, highlighting council’s indefinite axing of another funding initiative.
“Last time we got rid of Business Partner Program … nothing has been done since,” she said.
It was agreed a review of the 365 grants would be undertaken in March 2026.
Previous discussion by elected representatives highlighted their desire to find more effective ways to assist community and business organisations.
In the meantime, councillors McAllan, Cameron Moore and deputy mayor Kate McGrath were endorsed for the purpose of assessing the 2025/26 Section 356 (Community and Sports) Small Grants applications.
Gunnedah Shire mayor Colleen Fuller said funding up to $5000, GST-exclusive, is available for successful applicants.
“Council recognises the valuable contribution these community groups and sporting clubs make to the fabric of our community and in particular, the volunteers that work tirelessly to raise funds to keep those organisations functioning,” Cr Fuller said.
“When assessing the applications, priority will be given to those projects and initiatives that not only help organisations to grow and be sustainable, but also those that add to the vibrancy of our broader community.”
Funding applications close 5pm on Friday, October 17.
