Community groups in Armidale, Bundarra, Gunnedah, Manilla, Narrabri, and Wee Waa are among 56 grassroots projects across Australia sharing in more than $250,000 in new grants.
The Nutrien Community Grants Program, run in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), is handing out $253,251 in its latest round.
Each successful group will receive up to $5,000 to support the long-term vibrancy and wellbeing of its local community.
The funding is aimed squarely at small towns and the volunteers who keep them going.
Almost half of the latest recipients are in townships with fewer than 1,000 residents, including one with just 52 people. More than 70 per cent of the grants have gone to volunteer-run organisations.
FRRR Head of Granting Jill Karena praised the recipients for responding directly to local priorities.
“In this round, infrastructure and equipment feature prominently, reflecting demand for meaningful and tangible investments that create lasting community assets,” Karena said.
“We’re also pleased to be supporting initiatives that build awareness, knowledge and skills in priority areas, such as mental health support, and others that address challenges more remote communities face in accessing essential services and social activities.”
“Importantly, these grants will help local organisations deliver immediate benefits, while strengthening their ability to serve their community in the years to come.”
Nutrien Corporate Affairs Advisor Madeleine Muirhead said supporting local groups, particularly in places that depend on agriculture, is a priority for the business.
“Most of Nutrien’s staff live and work in the communities that we support, so we know first-hand just how vital local not-for-profits and community groups are,” Muirhead said.
“Being able to support such a diverse range of locally prioritised initiatives will strengthen the identity, wellbeing and social connection in these regions.”
In New South Wales, 14 towns are receiving funding, including the six in the New England North West.
Since 2021, the Nutrien and FRRR partnership has delivered more than $1.5 million to more than 330 community projects across rural Australia.
“We’re so pleased to see the mix of social and development-focussed projects, reflecting the complex needs to keep agriculture-dependent communities vibrant and thriving,” Muirhead said.
To see the full list of funding recipients, visit the FRRR website. More information about the Nutrien Community Grants Program is also available.
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