Accommodation grants

This program has no set dates or rounds. It is responsive as properties become available.

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Grants team

Before applying please contact the team to arrange a call back to discuss your project.

: 02 9265 9333
: [email protected]

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About this program

The City of Sydney’s community facilities include different buildings and spaces that vary in size, location and function.

Under our accommodation grants program, we lease facilities or spaces for up to 5 years at reduced rates (below market rental rates) or at no charge.

We may offer some longer tenancies based on operational and community needs and public interest. Tenancies are informed by the strategic priorities reviewed and set by Council every 4 years.

Applicants must demonstrate that payment of commercial rents would cause financial hardship leading to a reduction or withdrawal of services.

Our funding will prioritise applications that show one or more of the following:
- improved social wellbeing, reduced isolation and increased cultural participation
- increased services by community and cultural organisations that benefit residents, workers and visitors, and contribute to the social, cultural, economic and environmental health of the city
- enhanced financial sustainability for local organisations including artists
- greater public participation in arts and creative projects
- greater sharing of knowledge and resources by new and emerging groups, increasing the capacity and viability of the business and community sectors
- active solutions to sector-wide issues and provision of direct services by newly established and start-up businesses and organisations that benefit our communities.
We encourage applications from organisations that support Aboriginal and Torres and Strait Islander communities and culture, including Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and networks.
Proposals are assessed against:
- evidence of the need for the tenancy and proposed outcomes
- capacity and experience of the applicant
- demonstrated connection and benefit to the local area and community
- evidence of diversity, inclusion and equity in the planning and delivery of the project
- how the proposal delivers against the funding priorities
- any additional criteria nominated for specific properties as they become available
- for renewals, compliance with past agreements, lease terms and demonstration of ongoing need will be assessed.

Support available

Support is available in the form of waived or reduced rental charges for City of Sydney facilities. Rates vary depending on the space being leased and the financial capacity of the applicant.

The City of Sydney may require payment of a bond as part of your lease or licence agreement.

Eligibility

Funding is not available for:
- unincorporated community groups
- individuals
- projects that directly contravene the eligibility and ethics framework or existing City of Sydney policies.