Joint media release with Northern NSW Local Health District.
Older adults across Northern NSW will benefit from a new community grants program supporting safe, accessible and inclusive physical activity, with applications now open for the Older Adults Physical Activity Grants Program.
Healthy North Coast, in partnership with Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), is inviting eligible community organisations to apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 to deliver locally-led physical activity initiatives for older people.
Up to $150,000 is available in this funding round, supporting activities commencing from 1 July 2026 through to 30 June 2027. A second $150,000 funding round will be available later in the year.
The program focuses on improving physical activity participation among older adults, particularly those who are not currently active or who face barriers such as cost, transport, rurality, chronic health conditions or social isolation.
What the grants will support
Funding may be used to support a range of physical activity initiatives, including:
- strength, balance and mobility programs
- falls prevention activities
- low cost group exercise such as Tai Chi, dance or aqua aerobics
- modified sports such as walking football or walking netball
- transport support
- equipment purchases that respond to identified community needs and improve safe, inclusive access to physical activity.
Activities must be delivered within the Northern NSW Local Health District, including Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed local government areas.
The program targets:
- people aged 50 years and over, or 45 years and over for Aboriginal people
- older people who are not currently physically active
- people at risk of social isolation or declining health
- Aboriginal communities and other priority populations, including those based in rural areas.
Preference will be given to projects that are affordable or free, culturally safe, inclusive, and demonstrate strong community need and local engagement.
Eligible organisations include not for profits, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, local councils, sporting clubs, small businesses, and community organisations operating in Northern NSW.
Applications are now open, and will close at 5pm on Friday 22 May 2026.
For more information and to apply, visit hnc.org.au/tenders.
Quotes
Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the program recognises the strong link between physical activity, independence and wellbeing as people age.
“Regular physical activity plays a critical role in maintaining strength, balance, mental wellbeing and social connection. These grants will support community driven ideas that help older people stay active and connected in ways that work for their local area,” Ms Wheeler said.
NNSWLHD Acting Director Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion, Cameron Johnson said the initiative supports prevention and early intervention approaches that help older people remain healthy and independent for longer.
“By investing in accessible, low cost physical activity opportunities close to where people live, we can reduce the risk of falls, chronic disease and social isolation while supporting healthy ageing across our communities,” Mr Johnson said.
