Local organisations and councils across the state are being encouraged to celebrate the enormous contribution seniors make by holding an event during the 2018 NSW Seniors Festival.

Minister for Ageing, Tanya Davies, today announced the opening of grant applications for a share in $200,000, for events or activities that will support the festival’s 60^th year.

The 2018 festival will run from Wednesday April 4 to Sunday April 15.

“The NSW Seniors Festival is the largest celebration of older people in the Southern Hemisphere, and a brilliant way to connect with and appreciate older people in our communities,” Mrs Davies said.

“I encourage organisations to apply for a grant and hold events and activities in April that inspire seniors, regardless of their age or ability.”

Past events have focused on creativity, recreation, technology, and health, while also benefiting the culturally and linguistically diverse, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“This grant funding will help organisations arrange local events across the state, offering more than 1,000 free or discounted activities during the festival,” Mrs Davies said.

For the first time, there are three funding categories available:

• Tier 1 Grants of up to $1000 for small-scale local events or activities targeted at community organisations and schools
• Tier 2 Grants from $1,001 to $5000 for local community events targeted at larger community organisations
• Tier 3 Grants from $5,001 to $10,000 for large scale community events targeted at local councils in partnership with organisations and groups.

Grant applications close 5pm, Friday September 8, 2017. For more information or to submit an application, go to  www.nswseniorsfestival.com.au .