Grants guide: what happens after you apply

We check that you meet the requirements for the grant you applied for.

This may include:

• checking your ABN, or the ABN of your auspicing organisation
• asking you for more information if we need it.

We also check for duplicate applications. Keep in mind:

• you can only apply to one grant program for the same project at a time
• if we find duplicate applications, we’ll ask you to confirm which one you want us to assess and we’ll only consider that application
• we check applications across all programs, so don't apply under different names or entities for the same project.

At least 3 independent assessors with relevant experience review each eligible application.

Each assessor:

• assesses the application against the assessment criteria
• gives a score out of 10 for each criterion.

We combine the scores and the assessors meet to discuss the results.

The assessment panel then reviews all applications and makes recommendations based on:

• how well they met the assessment criteria
• the available budget.

For some grant programs, City of Sydney staff with specialist expertise may also provide advice.

All assessors must:

• declare any conflicts of interest
• keep information confidential
• not assess any application where there is an actual or perceived conflict of interest.

In some cases, the assessment panel may invite shortlisted applicants for an interview. We’ll let you know if this applies to you.

For the main grants program that opens in late July each year:

• Applications open: late July
• Applications close: 6 weeks after opening
• Council decision: November meeting
• Projects can start: 1 January

We’ll notify you in writing within 10 business days of Council’s decision.

Applicants will usually be notified of the outcome within a month of applying, but sometimes it may take longer.

Quick response grants are approved by the CEO under delegation from Council throughout the year. We’ll notify you in writing within 10 business days of the CEO's decision.

When planning your application, keep these timeframes in mind:

• your project should start at least 4 weeks after you submit your application
• your project must be completed within 4 months of receiving funding.

You’ll usually hear back within 3 months of submitting your application. In some cases, it may take longer.

Timelines vary for other grant programs like creative live and work spaces opportunities. We’ll confirm the relevant dates when you apply.

You may need to lodge a development application (DA) if your project involves:

• Capital works or minor building works.
• Outdoor dining.
• Changes to a building’s existing development approvals.

Speak to a duty planner early to confirm if a DA is required.

Projects involving public art – temporary or permanent – require written permission from the landowner before installation.

We recommend you:

• Read our public art policy.
• Speak to our public art team before you apply.

We support lawfully created street art in appropriate locations. Street art projects in our area also require the property owner's consent. Check our website to see if your location is exempt from a development application.

If your project involves an event in a City of Sydney managed outdoor space, you’ll need to submit an event application to our outdoor events and filming team before your event can take place.

Allow enough lead time. Requirements are outlined in our outdoor event guidelines.

Depending on your event, you may also need:

• Temporary food permit – required for any operator serving food or beverages. Apply through our health and building unit. Allow up to 28 days for new registrations.
• Liquor licence – required to serve alcohol. This must be obtained from the Office of Liquor and Gaming and include an alcohol management plan.
• Road closure approval – required if you plan to close a road to vehicles.

For road closures, you’ll need:

• Approval from the Local Pedestrian, Cycling, Traffic Calming and Transport Forum.
• A traffic management plan submitted 5 to 6 weeks before the relevant committee meeting.

Committee meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of each month.

Value-in-kind support – such as reduced venue hire or street banner pole hire – does not guarantee a booking.

All bookings must still go through the standard hiring process and are subject to availability.