Applications are now open for the 2026-27 NSW Community Bands Program, which provides funding to support community bands across NSW and encourage youth participation and engagement in community music. The program was announced as part of the Plan for Regional NSW Arts, Culture and Creative Industries and offers small grants to help community bands continue delivering music activities, education and performances in their local communities.

The program aims to:

• Increase access to music activities and education in NSW communities

• Support a stable or growing number of active community bands across NSW

• Strengthen community connections through music

• Increase youth engagement and participation in community bands

The funding is designed to provide quick-response support to community bands facing challenges such as limited funding opportunities, dispersed populations and travel requirements for members.

Examples of eligible projects include:

• Youth workshops that develop skills in brass instruments

• Community band performances that celebrate local talent

• String music activities and education programs for people living with disability

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a recognised community band (not a Conservatorium)

• Have an Australian Business Number (ABN) for an entity registered in NSW

• Have a business account with an Australian financial institution

• Not have received funding from Create NSW, either directly or through a devolved grant program, in the previous 12 months

For the purpose of this program, a community band is defined as a concert band, brass band or string ensemble made up of musicians representing a specific community, geographic area or community entity. The program is open to bands across NSW, with funding split equally between regional NSW and Greater Sydney to ensure statewide access.