Introducing Our New Community Donations and Sponsorship Policy
The new Community Donations and Sponsorship Policy and Eligibility Guidelines makes it easier to apply for donations and sponsorships for local sports, events, activities, and programs that benefit our community's wellbeing.
Each year, we provide funding to support local athletes and sports teams, cultural and educational groups, health and welfare organisations, and other groups that address a need in our community.
This new policy replaces several older policies, including:
- Financial Assistance – Donations Policy
- Sponsorship Policy
- Fee Reduction – Dunmore Recycling and Waste Disposal Depot
- Reciprocal Business Arrangements
- Sports Assistance and Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
By bringing these policies together, we are making the process simpler, clearer, and fairer for everyone.
Some of Council’s existing policies providing support to community continue to exist and remain unchanged including:
Things to consider
In 2024/25, Council will invest funding to support community development projects, including arts, culture, sports, and recreation through this policy.
Donations or sponsorships for individuals will be capped at:
1. $500 for country-level sports
2. $750 for state-level sports
3. $1,000 for national-level sports
4. $2,000 for international-level sports
5. Up to $2,000 for local community events and arts
Applications from organisations, groups, or sports teams will be assessed based on their merits and in line with our Community Donations and Sponsorship Eligibility Guidelines attached to the Community Donations and Sponsorship Policy.
Assessment
Due to limited funds, not all eligible applications can be funded.
Applications are reviewed as they come in, and decisions are made based on our eligibility guidelines and the budget available for each quarter.
Applications for $2,000 or less that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be assessed and then approved by our Council CEO or delegate within 8 weeks.
Applications over $2,000 will be assessed and then referred to Council for a decision at an ordinary Council meeting within 16 weeks.
How to apply?
- Read our Community Donations and Sponsorship Policy.
- If you meet the criteria, complete and submit an application via our online form.
- Submit your application and any supporting documentation as soon as possible. Applications are open until the funding budget is exhausted.
- If you need help with your application or have questions about eligibility, please contact council@shellharbour.nsw.gov.au. We’re here to help!
What if I’m not eligible under this policy but still want to ask Council for Support?
If you have an activity that you believe Council would support that is not eligible under this policy, you are encouraged to contact Council directly with some information about your proposed activity and how it would benefit our Community and align to Council’s stated plans and priorities. The appropriate Council representative will then contact you to advise how best to proceed.
Who should I contact for additional support?
If you would like any additional support with the above process, please contact Council on (02) 4221 6111 or send us an email at council@shellharbour.nsw.gov.au.