Young people across NSW will get more places to meet friends and learn new skills offline, with more than $4 million in youth grants now open for applications.
The package brings together three programs: Connect IRL Phase 2, Youth Week 2027, and Holiday Break Autumn and Winter 2027. Applications for all three are open from Friday, 9 October to Friday, 6 November, and successful applicants will be notified in early 2027.
The centrepiece is the next round of Connect IRL grants. More than $3 million is available to councils, not-for-profits, and community organisations to deliver practical initiatives that help young people strengthen social connections, build independence, and create pathways into education and employment.
The funding will support projects that help young people aged 8 to 24 make friends, develop confidence, and access new opportunities in the school holidays, regardless of where they live.
It builds on the first round of Connect IRL funding, which was developed in response to young people’s calls for more chances to connect face to face. The new Office for Youth has found that young people consistently ask for more government support to build third spaces where they can find a sense of community and belonging offline.
“These grants are about backing local organisations and councils that know their communities and can create meaningful opportunities for young people close to home,” said Minister for Youth Rose Jackson.
“Whether it’s creating a new youth hub, delivering a Youth Week event, or running holiday activities, these programs will help ensure young people have more places to meet and hang out in real life.”
The announcement comes as thousands of young people take part in free activities funded through the latest Holiday Break Spring and Summer 2026-27 round. More than $780,000 has been awarded to 93 councils and community organisations. Activities range from sporting clinics and robotics workshops to drumming, dumpling-making, and outdoor adventure programs.
Advocate for Children and Young People Katherine McKernan said young people’s experiences and insights had helped shape the funding priorities.
“We know positive outcomes are strongest when programs are designed around what young people need and value, and children and young people have played an important role in shaping the priorities behind this investment,” she said.
“These grants will support local organisations to deliver practical initiatives that help young people navigate important stages of life, from developing independence and employment skills to building stronger support networks in their communities.”
Programs reach metropolitan, regional, rural, and remote communities across the state.
To find out more and apply, visit the grants and funding finder
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