The NSW Government will provide more than $12.45 million in community grants to maintain and improve Crown land across the state, including $68,910 for two projects in and around Heathcote.
The Heathcote projects are among 102 Crown reserve projects across the state that are being funded as part of the 2025–26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund annual funding round.
Grants are available to help maintain and upgrade reserves and associated public facilities. Funding is also allocated to control feral pests and weeds, to keep reserves in good shape for community use and protect native plants and animals.
Crown reserves are public land set aside for the benefit of the community, supporting recreation, local events and environmental protection, and providing important spaces for communities across NSW.
The 2025–26 annual funding round focuses on practical works that improve the condition, safety and usability of Crown reserves, including upgrades to infrastructure and essential land management activities.
This year’s Heathcote grants support environmental restoration and land management
- $49,000 for weed control at Wombarra Cemetery
- $19,910 for weed control within Pinecourt Park and the Coledale Rock Platform
Eligible recipients of Crown Reserves Improvement Fund grant funding are Crown land managers including local councils, community organisations and authorised user groups responsible for the care and operation of reserves across the state.
Applications are Now Open for the 2026–27 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund
Building on this investment, applications are now open for the 2026–27 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund round, with funding available for new projects across NSW.
The 2026–27 round of applications will be assessed on reserve usage, community impact, deliverability and affordability.
The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund annual funding round is a NSW Government grants program administered by Crown Lands within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The Fund is self-sustaining and supported by revenue generated from Crown land, including leases, licences and other income streams.
For further information please visit Crown Reserve Improvement Fund at crownland.nsw.gov.au
Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said:
“Crown reserves are an important part of community life across our region, supporting recreation, local events and everyday community use.
“These grants will help Wollongong City Council deliver practical improvements, including targeted weed control and ongoing care of coastal and community spaces, that will benefit the community now and into the future.
“Weed control works at Wombarra Cemetery and coastal reserves around Austinmer and Coledale, helps to maintain the condition of these important local areas.
“I encourage eligible Crown land managers to apply for the 2026–27 round and bring forward projects that will further strengthen our local reserves.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Crown reserves are part of the fabric of communities across NSW, supporting recreation, local events and community life.
“These projects are about making sure Crown land continues to deliver for communities, whether that’s through better facilities, safer access or protecting the natural environment that people rely on.
“By investing in these projects and opening a new funding round, we are continuing to support communities to care for and improve the places they rely on every day.”
MEDIA:
Lachlan Wilkinson | Maryanne Stuart | 9548 0144
