THE NSW Government is proud to announce the opening of the 2025–27 NSW Heritage Grants Program, offering $8.5 million in funding over two years to support local councils and those who own or manage items listed on the NSW State Heritage Register.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging local communities to take advantage of this funding to help preserve, protect and activate heritage sites across the region, this will ensure these important places continue to play a vital role in our shared heritage and public engagement.

The funding has seen an increase of $2.5 million from previous rounds, underscoring the NSW Government’s dedication to protecting and celebrating the state’s rich heritage.

The 2025–27 NSW Heritage Grants Program will fund projects that support declared Aboriginal Places, activate items on the NSW State Heritage Register and assist local councils to preserve and promote local heritage.

Funding is available across four key categories:

• $4.5 million for Caring for State Heritage: Grants of up to $300,000 to maintain and preserve state-significant heritage items.
• $1 million for Activating State Heritage: A major grant for one project that will revitalise a state-significant site, creating new public engagement opportunities.
• $500,000 for Aboriginal Cultural Heritage: Up to $80,000 for works to a declared Aboriginal Place or $30,000 for an Aboriginal Place management document. 
• $2.5 million for Local Government Heritage: Local councils can apply for $25,000 to fund local heritage initiatives, helping reconnect communities with their heritage.

Applications are now open and close at 10 am on Thursday, 30 January 2025. Those interested in applying can find more information, including eligibility criteria and application details, on the Heritage NSW website or the NSW Government Grants and Funding Finder.

NSW Minister for Heritage, Penny Sharpe said, “The 2025-2027 NSW Heritage Grants Program will ensure that heritage sites across the State are not only protected but also activated to remain vital, accessible and deeply valued by our communities for years to come.

“This funding demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding the diverse cultural heritage that defines NSW. By supporting projects that maintain, promote and celebrate significant sites, we are making sure NSW communities can continue to engage with their heritage well into the future.”

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin said, “The NSW Heritage Grants Program offers an opportunity for us to protect and activate heritage places, deepening our connection to the stories and history that define our community.

“I strongly encourage eligible applicants to apply to help protect and activate heritage places in our community, enhancing public engagement and cultural awareness.”