Not-for-profit organisations, entrepreneurs, and businesses with initiatives to support economic growth or promote health and wellbeing in Singleton are encouraged to apply for Round Five of the Singleton Community and Economic Development Fund (CEDF).

The fund, established in partnership between Singleton Council, The Bloomfield Group, and Glencore, uses Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) proceeds to support local projects. Since its launch in 2021, the CEDF has delivered a total of $1.9 million to the community.

Past projects funded through the program have included facility upgrades for community organisations, such as kitchen and bathroom improvements for Singleton Country Women’s Association (CWA), enhancements to sports facilities like Maison Dieu Mountain Bike Track and Singleton Netball, mental health initiatives, and programs to support local business growth. Round Four beneficiaries included Novaskill, which ran a construction skills and qualification program, and Cooinda Retirement Home, which created an outdoor all-weather accessible space for residents.

Deputy Mayor of Singleton and CEDF Chair Cr Sue George said applications for Round Five are open until 31 October 2025.

“We’ve seen some amazing projects delivered for our community during the life of the Fund so far, meeting needs for social inclusion and improving quality of life for our residents as well as targeting economic growth and prosperity,” Cr George said.

The CEDF requires potential applicants to attend at least one information session to be eligible. Remaining sessions include:

• Thursday 11 September | 5.30 – 6.30pm | Virtual via Teams
• Friday 12 September | 10 – 11am | In person at Singleton Public Library
• Monday 13 October | 2 – 3pm | Virtual via Teams

“It’s compulsory to attend at least one session because we want to make sure everyone understands what we’re looking for in the applications and to provide some background on how they will be assessed,” Cr George said.

“From upgrades to community facilities and public art installations through to support services and employment programs, we’ve seen some brilliant projects get off the ground because of this Fund and we’re looking forward to seeing what will come to fruition in Round Five.”

IMAGE | Singleton CWA were recipients of the Community and Economic Development Fund under Rounds 1 and 2.