The popular Connecting Seniors Grant Program is back for 2025 with expanded opportunities for community groups and local councils to offer seniors a social lifeline in the Blue Mountains electorate.   

Applications for the $840,000 grant program are now open with 28 grants worth $30,000 each on offer. 

The grants will fund locally inspired projects, programs and activities which foster inclusion for seniors. Examples may include social gatherings, salsa dancing lessons, song clubs or other inclusive activities.   

The grant program is divided into five categories: 

• Aboriginal Grants: Four grants for Aboriginal-led organisations or Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations for initiatives targeted for Aboriginal communities  

• Multicultural Grants: Four grants for multicultural organisations for initiatives aimed at Culturally and Linguistically Diverse groups 

• Creation Grants: Six grants for new projects  

• Enhancement or Expansion Grants: Six grants to boost existing projects   

• Local Council Grants: Eight grants specifically for council-led projects  

The multicultural category and Aboriginal category are new this year and intended to reach a more diverse range of older people. 

This grant round focuses on intergenerational projects to foster enhanced social connections linking older and younger people.  

The Connecting Seniors Grant Program has funded more than 120 projects for more than 30,000 seniors across 82 Local Government Areas across NSW since 2020. 

The grant program  delivers on the NSW Government’s commitment in the Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021-2031 to promote inclusion for older people. 

Applications for the 2025 grant program close on 21 October 2024. Find out more and apply at: Connecting Seniors Grant Program 2025 | Communities and Justice (nsw.gov.au) 

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said: 

“Whether it’s dancing lessons or digital literacy, bush walking or a friendly chat, the Connecting Seniors Grant Program strengthens the social lives of thousands of seniors.”  

“This program plays a vital role in terms of combating ageism, promoting inclusion, sharing experiences, and breaking down stereotypes across NSW.”  

Trish Doyle MP said: 

“There are many older people in our local community who can benefit from the Connecting Seniors Grant Program which supports a range of terrific activities to keep people moving and promote creativity.” 

“I can’t wait to see the projects funded under this initiative come to life to keep our seniors engaged and active.”