Local junior sporting teams, neighborhood centres, men’s sheds and other community groups in new councils will be able to apply for a grant of up to $50,000 through the NSW Government’s Stronger Communities Fund, Minister for Local Government Paul Toole said today.

 Mr Toole said new councils will get up to $15 million to kick-start the delivery of priority infrastructure and services for the local community.

 New councils were today issued with guidelines on how to allocate their share of the Stronger Communities Fund.

 “New councils will deliver the better services and infrastructure that local communities need and want, now and in the future. Local residents and community groups will play a vital role alongside the council in building a stronger community for all,” Mr Toole said.

 “Community groups are the heart and soul of our communities and the services they provide make a real and lasting difference to the lives of residents.

 “Under the guidelines community groups can apply for grants of up to $50,000 for local projects, such as the upgrade of club facilities or new sporting equipment.”

 Mr Toole said the new council will also invest in larger scale projects to deliver long-term economic and social benefits.

 “These projects may include swimming pool upgrades, road and carpark improvements or new sporting field amenities,” Mr Toole said.

 “Importantly, the local community will have the opportunity to have their say on how these funds are spent and I would encourage residents with ideas on what projects they would like to see funded to get in touch with the new council.”

 “To ensure the Stronger Communities Fund is allocated to projects in an open and transparent way, the NSW Government will require the council to apply high standards to the decision making process, including the appointment of a local assessment panel that includes an independent probity adviser.”