Crown land managers across the Northern Rivers are being urged to apply for the 2025–26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. There is now $13.5 million available to maintain and upgrade local reserves and community facilities.
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the Minns Government has increased the pool by more than $2 million from last year. They have made the program more accessible. The minimum general grant has been halved to $50,000. This change enables smaller, high-impact projects to move ahead faster.
“Crown reserves are central to our cultural, sporting and recreational life,” Ms Saffin said. “This funding helps keep them safe, functional and welcoming.”
What’s on offer
Eligible Crown land reserve managers — including local councils, community groups, and showgrounds — can seek grants up to $1 million. These grants are for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades that strengthen community use and resilience.
Applications close 5:00pm AEDT, 5 December 2025. Projects that best meet the criteria will be recommended to the Minister for Lands and Property. Final allocations will be determined by a Crown Lands assessment committee in early–mid 2026.
How to apply
Prospective applicants can find full guidelines and submission details on the Reserve Manager website. Alternatively, they can contact the Department’s funding team on 1300 886 235 (option 5) or reservefunding@crownland.nsw.gov.au.
