Lawn mower racing

Events & Tourism

Funding opportunities for major events now open

Published: 27 Mar 2023 10:24am

Wagga Wagga City Council is now accepting applications for its 2023/24 Major Events, Festivals and Film Sponsorship funding program.

This funding supports organisers to deliver major events in the city to ensure a vibrant events calendar is developed for our community and visitors to enjoy year-round.

Council Events Officer Emma Corbett said funding amounts between $3,000 and $20,000 are available for events held between 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.

Two women in foreground, fountain and council chambers in background
APPLY NOW: Council Events Officer Emma Corbett and Destination & Events Coordinator Kim Parker are encouraging event organisers to get in early with their applications for the 2023/24 Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship funding program.

“We are excited to support innovative and creative events that deliver strong social benefits and economic returns for the city,” Ms Corbett said.

“This funding recognises the importance of events and festivals in driving visitation to our Wagga Wagga + Surrounds region, as well as showcasing our public spaces and enlivening our city.”

This funding has previously supported many successful projects, with past recipients including Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras, Gears & Beers, Motor Mania, along with locally produced film The Merger.

Mardi Gras

There are three categories of funding available including incubator events, developing events and flagship events catering for the different growth and development stages an event progresses through.

Applications will remain open and be assessed periodically until June 2024 or until allocated funds are exhausted.

There are four assessment rounds throughout the financial year, with the first-round closing on 14 May 2023.

Event organisers are encouraged to contact the Visitor Economy and Events team at events@wagga.nsw.gov.au or on 1300 292 422.

Applications can be made online through SmartyGrants at wagga.smartygrants.com.au


For more information on the program:

Event Sponsorship


Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship funding categories

Incubator Events
New innovative events that are in their first or second year can apply for funding from $3,000 - $10,000

Developing Events
Events that have been running successfully for more than two consecutive years can apply for up to $20,000

Flagship Events
Events that have already received three (3) years of funding through the Major Events, Festival and Film Sponsorship program in previous years can apply for funding from $10,000 - $20,000.