Community programs creating lasting benefits for regional NSW

Forty-eight not-for-profit organisations have secured grants to support projects that will strengthen community connections and deliver long lasting local benefits.

Funding recipients are spread across NSW including the Central West, Riverina, Southern Tablelands, Hunter and New England regions where Transgrid works closely with communities every day.

Since 2023, more than 470 organisations have received over $1.9 million in Transgrid grants, supporting a wide range of initiatives including community infrastructure, educational workshops, and projects that promote inclusivity and accessibility.

Transgrid Executive General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Stakeholder Engagement and Environment, Maryanne Graham, said the grants are a commitment to supporting the communities in which the NSW electricity transmission network operates.

“Local community groups play a critical role in bringing people together, providing support to residents and creating opportunities for future generations,” Ms Graham said.

“We’re proud to support these local projects because we’ve heard from the participants that they really do provide a meaningful difference to them.

“This funding will help a broad range of organisations, from sporting clubs, schools and early learning centres to First Nations groups, community halls, service groups and support services, to deliver initiatives that improve quality of life and strengthen community wellbeing.

“Supporting positive social and economic outcomes for communities across our network remains a key priority for Transgrid, particularly in the regions that are playing an important role in Australia's clean energy transition.”

Bowning Rural Fire Brigade in the South West Slopes will use its grant for vital equipment upgrades.

“We’re extremely grateful to Transgrid for supporting the Bowning Rural Fire Brigade,” Senior Deputy Captain Nate Holdworth said.

“This funding will provide new portable radios, scene lighting and operational equipment that will be used by our volunteers on real emergency scenes, including bushfires, motor vehicle accidents and other incidents.

“The equipment will directly improve communication, safety and our ability to operate effectively, particularly at night and in challenging conditions.

“For a small volunteer brigade, support like this makes a genuine difference to our operational capability and ultimately helps us provide a safer and more effective emergency response for the Bowning community and surrounding areas.”

Moulamein Preschool in the Riverina will use its funding to provide students with new opportunities to learn and explore.

“The new outdoor resources will provide our children with exciting opportunities to explore, play and learn, supporting their development and helping them reach important developmental milestones,” Preschool Director Rachael Woolhouse said.

“We are incredibly grateful for Transgrid’s investment in creating an engaging and inspiring learning environment for our children.”

PCYC Singleton in the Hunter region will use its grant to give younger drivers the skills needed to be more confident and safer on regional roads.

"With the support of Transgrid, Singleton PCYC is addressing a critical need voiced in the community regarding driver education and injury/fatality reduction for youth,” Club Manager David Andrews said.

"Only 19% of eligible learner drivers complete an accredited Safer Drivers Course. Anecdotal evidence suggests this is because of financial pressure. This grant from Transgrid will allow 40 learner drivers in Singleton to access the Safer Drivers Course.”

A full list of grant recipients can be found here: Community Partnerships Program

Applications for Round 2 of the 2026 Community Partnerships Program will open on Monday, September 21. For more information, visit: www.transgrid.com.au/cpp

Media enquiries: Levi Joule – 0481 112 074