Sydney Community Bands Eligible For Share Of $100,000 Under New NSW Create Fund

Sydney community bands are being brought into an NSW Government funding program for the first time, and can now access a share of $100,000 to cover everything from instrumentals and music to workshops and travel.

Create NSW opened applications for the 2026-27 NSW Community Bands Program on Tuesday, October 6 while quick-response grants of up to $2,500 are available to community concert bands, wind ensembles and brass bands.

The expanded program is the first to include community bands in metropolitan Sydney, Western Sydney and regional NSW, and is intended to reduce costs that might otherwise be passed on to band members while helping young, disadvantaged and remote musicians participate in community ensembles.

What Can The NSW Create Fund Be Used For?

Funding can be used for one-off costs such as music and equipment purchases, workshops, commissioning new compositions and band travel, as well as marketing and fundraising activities. The pool has doubled from the inaugural 2025-26 program which provided more than $47,000 to 20 community bands across regional NSW.

Create NSW Executive Director Kerri Glasscock said the expansion would allow more community ensembles to access support.

“By doubling funding and expanding state-wide, we’re helping more community bands cover costs, support young musicians and continue bringing the joy of life ensemble music to communities across NSW.”

Applications are being assessed on a quick-response, first-come basis and will remain open until February 5, 2027, or until funding is exhausted.

Last year’s recipients included bands from Bega, Lismore, West Wyalong and Wee Waa, which were funded as part of the NSW Government’s Heartland: A plan for regional NSW arts, culture and creative industries.

Eligible bands can apply through Create NSW.