Nine inspiring community groups from across the State’s port precincts have received a welcome funding boost through Port Authority’s 2025 Community Grants Program.
Selected from a pool of 87 applications, the successful recipients reflect the impressive dedication of the people who live, work and volunteer in port communities from the Sapphire Coast to the Northern Rivers of NSW.
The grants provide vital funding to grassroots organisations delivering projects that strengthen community connections, promote sustainability, and support the wellbeing of the people who call these port regions home.
Port Authority Chief Executive Officer John McKenna said the program was about supporting the people and projects that help port communities thrive.
“Port Authority is strongly linked to the communities we operate in, and we’re proud to back initiatives that leave our ports in a better place,” he said.
“From youth mentorship and maritime safety to educating people about the marine environment, each of these projects help to build stronger and more connected communities.”
Port Authority Head of Regional Ports Peter Ernst said the grants provide support needed to turn ideas into action.
“For small local organisations, receiving a grant can mean the difference between having a great idea and making it happen. It’s what helps a community event come to life or getting a much-needed safety upgrade installed. That kind of support can have lasting impact.”
Examples of the successful recipients of the 2025 Community Grants Program in each region include:
- Sydney and Port Botany: Reverse Garbage to run school workshops turning reclaimed materials into artworks to raise awareness about marine litter and sustainability; and Making Waves Foundation to deliver a hands-on mentoring program teaching disadvantaged youth boatbuilding and maritime skills.
- Newcastle and Yamba: Swimming NSW for free swim clinics for children and adults to promote water safety skills; and Marine Rescue Newcastle received funding towards an upgrade of its training and administration capabilities for marine rescue operations with new computers.
- Port Kembla and Eden: Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce and Industry will install two life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in high traffic areas; and the Eden Whale Festival for funding to support their annual event that brings the community together to celebrate the migration of whales with vibrant events, market stalls, and performances.
The full list of successful recipients here: www.portauthoritynsw.com.au/around-ports/our-community/community-grants
Applications for the next Community Grants Program will open in early 2026.
Port Authority 2025 Community Grant Winning Recipients
| Port | Organisation | Purpose |
| Sydney | Reverse Garbage | Creative workshops for school students, turning reclaimed materials into artworks to raise awareness of marine litter and the impact on local ecosystems. |
| Sydney | Making Waves Foundation, Sydney Harbour | Mentoring program teaching disadvantaged youth boatbuilding and maritime skills to construct and launch rainbow dinghies on Sydney Harbour. |
| Port Botany | Volunteer Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking | Simulated radio console to train and assess volunteers in radio operations to improve emergency response capabilities. |
| Newcastle and Yamba | Swimming NSW | Free swim clinics in Newcastle and Yamba promoting swimming as a life skill, and coaching development. |
| Newcastle | Marine Rescue Newcastle | New desktop computers for training and administration to support marine rescue operations and volunteer development for over 50 members. |
| Newcastle | Making Waves Foundation, Newcastle | Sailing program on Newcastle Harbour empowering disadvantaged and disabled youth to build confidence, teamwork, and maritime skills. |
| Port Kembla | Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce and Industry | Installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in high-traffic areas for port users, beachgoers and visitors. |
| Port Kembla | Goats Creek Longboarders | Surfing and wellness program promoting physical activity, social interaction and environmental advocacy. |
| Eden | Eden Whale Festival | Supporting Eden’s annual festival celebrating the southern migration of whales. |
