Grants plant seed for environmental glow-ups

Organisations with ideas to improve the environment and inspire sustainable behaviour across Lake Macquarie are encouraged to apply for a Community Environment Grant.

The grants offer up to $5000 for projects that reduce waste, improve biodiversity, lower carbon emissions or promote environmentally sustainable practices in the community.

Recent projects the program has supported include a community garden upgrade at St Luke’s Uniting Church at Belmont, benefiting local preschool children, community housing residents and volunteers.

Church representative Marilyn Deas said the project had re‑energised the garden and expanded its role in the community.

“This project has renewed the enthusiasm of our gardeners and community,” she said.

“It will enable more produce to be grown and shared with the pre‑schoolers that visit twice a week, community housing residents, church congregation and gardeners.”

The $5000 made it possible for church volunteers to build three new garden beds, refurbish old beds and buy soil.

“We’re able to divide plants to sell back to the community, helping us work towards being almost self‑sufficient,” Ms Deas said.

Lake Macquarie City Council Coordinator Sustainability Engagement Zoe Johnson said such projects showed how practical, community‑led ideas could deliver tangible, local benefits.

“We’re seeing how relatively small grants can support projects that strengthen community connections and resilience, while improving outcomes for our environment,” she said.

“We encourage eligible groups with an idea to apply and take advantage of this opportunity.”

Eligible applicants include not‑for‑profit organisations, community groups, social enterprises, sole traders and other entities that can demonstrate clear community benefit.

Applications for this round of Community Environment Grants close 5pm, Sunday 13 April.

For more information or to apply, visit lakemac.com.au/community-environment-grants.