The NSW Government has announced a $1.5 million injection into the Regional Event Fund for the 2025/26 financial year, aiming to bolster local events, boost tourism, and stimulate regional economies.
Funding to Grow Regional Events and Local Economies
Event organisers across regional New South Wales have the opportunity to secure vital funding as applications open for the 2025/26 Regional Event Fund. With a history of supporting over 530 events and delivering more than $14 million in funding since its establishment 29 years ago, this initiative plays a crucial role in enriching the state’s vibrant events calendar while boosting local economies and tourism.
The program, part of the NSW Government’s broader plan to enhance the state’s visitor economy, empowers regional communities to create and sustain events that showcase their unique local culture and attract visitors. The financial support provided ensures these events not only thrive but also contribute to increased overnight stays and greater expenditure in regional areas.
Applications are now open across three key funding streams: Incubator Event, Flagship Event, and Event Development. Eligible events must take place between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026 and be located within one of the seven Destination Networks. Each stream is designed to cater to events at different stages of their development.
Incubator Event Stream: Helping New Events Take Off
For fledgling events in their first or second year, the Incubator Event Stream offers seed funding of up to $20,000 (excluding GST) to support foundational activities that help establish events as long-term drivers of visitation.
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- Application Deadline: 11:59pm (AEST) Sunday, 6 April 2025
- Apply for Incubator Event Stream
Flagship Event Stream: Supporting Established Events
Designed for events that have been running for more than two years, the Flagship Event Stream provides funding to enhance marketing efforts and attract visitors from outside the immediate area. Two funding options are available:
- Annual Grant: $20,000 (ex GST)
- Triennial Grant: $30,000 (ex GST) per annum for three years (available to events that have successfully completed three annual Flagship grants)
- Application Deadline: 11:59pm (AEST) Sunday, 6 April 2025
- Apply for Flagship Event Stream
Event Development Stream: Driving Long-Term Growth
For mature events that have already received the maximum support under the Flagship Event Stream, the Event Development Stream offers grants of up to $50,000 (ex GST) for strategic initiatives that directly increase overnight visitation.
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- Rolling Applications: Open until 31 December 2025, or until funds are exhausted
- Apply for Event Development Stream
One Grant Per Event Per Year
It’s important to note that events can receive only one grant per financial year across all Destination NSW funding programs, including the Regional Event Fund. Organisers who previously applied for funding through the 2024/25 program can reference their past applications via the relevant portal: Incubator Event Stream, Flagship Event Stream.
For full details, eligibility criteria, and application forms, visit the Destination NSW website or contact the Grants Administration team at grants.admin@dnsw.com.au.
Image: Courtesy Destination NSW
