These funding streams closed 31 July 2024.
Events play an important role in our Region, providing a diverse range of vibrant experiences and delivering social, cultural and economic benefits to the local community. Dubbo Regional Council is committed to supporting the development, growth and sustainability of local events through the two streams that form the Event Assistance Program.
COMMUNITY EVENTS FUND
Our Community Events Fund supports locally organised events that deliver social and cultural benefits, creating social connections and improving the liveability and well-being of our residents.
All applicants are required to apply online via SmartyGrants once they have read and understood the Event Assistance Program Guidelines (PDF 868.4KB). No paper applications, or applications via email or fax will be accepted. Eligible groups can apply for up to $3,000 in a round, to help meet the following costs:
• assist with hire charges of Council venues or any other Council fee or charge associated with the event;
• event marketing (activity to build awareness of the event with aim to drive attendance)
• engagement of artists, performers, musicians or other creative workers
• event production (e.g. audio hire) and event infrastructure (e.g. staging)
Eligible applicants can apply in either of the two rounds, however Round 2 will only open subject to availability of funding not being exhausted in Round 1. Successful applicants must hold their event prior to 30 June 2025. For tips on ensuring your acquittal meets necessary standards, see our Acquittal Fact Sheet (PDF 180.1KB).
The following events were successful under the 2024/2025 Community Events Fund: Under Western Skies Festival; Dubbo Multicultural Event; Man from Ironbark Festival; Holi Festival of Colours; Teej Festival; Orana K9 Training Club Obedience Trial; Carols by Candlelight; Geurie Lions Christmas Carols.
DESTINATION EVENTS FUND
Our Destination Events Fund supports events that help elevate the Dubbo Region as a destination for events and assist in driving tourism and delivering significant economic benefits.
All applicants are required to apply online via SmartyGrants once they have read and understood the Event Assistance Program Guidelines (PDF 868.4KB). No paper applications, or applications via email or fax will be accepted. Eligible groups can apply for up to $10,000 to help meet the following costs:
• assist with hire charges of Council venues or any other Council fee or charge associated with the event;
• event marketing (activity to build awareness of the event with aim to drive attendance)
• engagement of artists, performers, musicians or other creative workers
• event production (e.g. audio hire) and event infrastructure (e.g. staging)
Successful applicants must hold their event between 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025. For tips on ensuring your acquittal meets necessary standards, see our Acquittal Fact Sheet (PDF 180.1KB).
The following events were successful under the 2025 Destination Events Fund: Dubbo Eisteddfod; Dubbo Stampede; Dubbo MotorFest; Stock Route Music Festival; Wellington Boot; Dubbo Whisky Winter Festival; Cross Cultural Carnival.