Port of Newcastle has opened applications for its 2026 Your Port, Our Community grants program, offering a shared pool of $100,000 to non-profit organisations and charities across regional New South Wales. Eligible applicants include community groups across the Port’s trade network, spanning Newcastle, the Hunter, New England, North West and Central West regions.

Since 2014, the annual grant initiative has distributed over $1.1 million to local community projects. Funding under the program supports service expansions, equipment procurement, and community welfare initiatives. Applications for the 2026 round close at 5:00pm AEDT on Friday 16 October 2026.

Previous recipients under the 2025 grant round included Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT, which used the funding to supply specialised therapy equipment and wigs to children across Newcastle. The Cancer Patients Foundation also received 2025 grant funding, enabling 100 individuals undergoing cancer treatment in the Hunter New England Health District to participate in its Look Good Feel Better support workshops and access home care kits.

The $100,000 corporate program operates alongside the separate $1 million Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund, which is administered by the NSW Government for maritime precinct infrastructure projects.

Executive Manager Corporate Affairs at Port of Newcastle, Lucas Coleman stated that the funding program strengthens connections between port operations and regional supply chain communities.

“From Newcastle and Maitland to Narrabri, Moree, Dubbo and beyond, we are committed to supporting the local organisations working every day to make these communities stronger,” Lucas said.

“Since 2014, Port of Newcastle has provided more than $1.1 million to deserving charities and not-for-profits through its Your Port, Our Community grants. This reflects our long-term commitment to backing local organisations that understand what their communities need and have strong ideas for creating lasting impact. Whether it’s helping an organisation deliver a new program, extend an existing service or purchase essential equipment, this funding can turn a great idea into something practical that makes a real difference. We encourage eligible charities and not-for-profits across our catchment to apply.”

Chief Executive Officer of Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT, Tony Warner added that community grants expand access to specialised healthcare equipment.

“Through access to therapy and specialist equipment support, this funding is helping children build confidence, improve their wellbeing and participate more fully in school, family and community life,” Tony said.

General Manager of Cancer Patients Foundation and Look Good Feel Better, Carol Kavurma noted that local grant support delivers direct care to patients across the Hunter.

“We are extremely grateful for Port of Newcastle’s generous support and the meaningful difference it has made to the lives of over 100 people undergoing cancer treatment across the Newcastle community,” Carol said.

“With this funding we have been able to provide our in-person workshops, Home Delivered Confidence Kits, virtual workshops and our weekly Feel Better Fridays to 100 people across Newcastle. Together, these services provide practical ongoing support, helping participants feel more confident, connected, and supported throughout their treatment.”

IMAGE | Port of Newcastle opens applications for $100,000 Your Port, Our Community grants