Community concert bands, wind ensembles and brass bands across NSW will have access to doubled government funding in 2026–27, with Create NSW increasing its Community Band Program to $100,000.

Now in its second year, the program offers quick-response grants of up to $2,500 for one-off costs including music and equipment purchases, workshops, new commissions, band-related travel, marketing and fundraising.

The expanded program will now include community bands in metropolitan and Western Sydney, alongside those in regional NSW. It is intended to reduce costs that might otherwise fall to band members while helping young, disadvantaged and remote musicians overcome barriers to participation.

Lilac City Brass, Goulburn NSW. Photo © James Webb

Applications are open on a first-come, first-served basis until 5 February 2027, or until funding is exhausted.
The program builds on the inaugural 2025–26 round, which distributed more than $47,000 to 20 community bands across regional NSW, from Bega to Lismore and West Wyalong to Wee Waa.

“Create NSW is pleased to increase our support for community bands through these quick-response grants, so they can continue connecting musicians of all ages,” said Kerri Glasscock, Create NSW Executive Director.

The initiative forms part of the NSW Government’s HEARTLAND: A plan for regional NSW arts, culture and creative industries, which identified community bands as a priority for targeted support.

For more information about how to apply, visit create.nsw.gov.au