Media release: Grants open to support older people to be active across Northern NSW

Joint media release with Northern NSW Local Health District:

Applications are now open for Round 2 of the Active Ageing Grants, funding programs that support older people across Northern NSW to stay active, connected and independent.

Community organisations, sporting clubs, councils, Aboriginal organisations, sole traders and small businesses are invited to apply.

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) in partnership with Healthy North Coast, through the North Coast Primary Health Network program, is offering grants of $5,000 to $30,000 (excluding GST) to support local physical activity programs for older people across Northern NSW. A total of $150,000 is available through Round 2.

The grants aim to support practical, community-led activities that support older people become more physically active, improve their health and wellbeing, and strengthen social connections. Priority will be given to programs that support people who are less active or socially connected, or who face barriers such as cost, transport, low confidence or limited opportunities to participate.

NNSWLHD Acting Director Oral Health and Health Promotion Graeme Williams said the program was helping local organisations create opportunities for older people to enjoy the benefits of being active.

“Regular physical activity is one of the best things older people can do for their health and wellbeing. It helps maintain strength, balance and independence, while also providing important opportunities for social connection,” Mr Williams said.

“We know that many older people face barriers to getting active. These grants help community organisations create local opportunities that make it easier for older people to participate in safe, welcoming and affordable activities.”

Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer Monika Wheeler said the program builds on the success of the first funding round, which supported a range of innovative projects across the region.

“The strong response to Round 1 demonstrated the commitment of local organisations to supporting healthy ageing and community connection across the region,” Ms Wheeler said.

“We encourage organisations with ideas that can support older people move more, connect with others and improve their quality of life to apply for this next round of funding.”

One community organisation funded through Round 1 was Meet Move Eat. Co-founder Lisa Flower said their funding was used to expand community exercise programs in Murwillumbah, Uki and Tumbulgum.

“The grant funding has enabled us to take our Chair Yoga and Coffee program to more older people across the Tweed Valley, including those who may be experiencing social isolation or who don’t feel comfortable joining a traditional exercise class,” Ms Flower said.

“We designed the program around a simple idea: move a little, connect a lot. Participants spend an hour improving their strength, balance and flexibility, then stay for a cup of coffee, conversation and community.

“We’ve seen people arrive feeling nervous and leave with new friendships, greater confidence and a stronger sense of belonging. That’s the real impact of this funding. It isn’t just supporting physical activity, it is helping older people stay connected, independent and engaged in their community.”

Funded activities will run between January 2027 and June 2028 and must be delivered in eligible local government areas including Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley, Tweed, and Urbenville in Tenterfield Shire. Culturally safe activities that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged.

Potential applicants are encouraged to attend an online industry briefing session on 16 September 2026 at 3.30pm to learn more about the opportunity and ask questions. Applications close at 5pm on 15 October 2026 and must be submitted through TenderLink.

For grant guidelines, application information, industry briefing details and TenderLink registration, visit the Healthy North Coast website. For further information, email commissioning@hnc.org.au.

NSW Health also offers free healthy eating and active living information and services to support older people and communities across NSW. Visit the Healthy Living website for more information: nsw.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-living/healthy-living-for-adults-and-older-adults.