The Minns Labor Government is working with local communities to build a safer New South Wales through the 16 Days of Activism Grant Program to help stop violence before it starts.
The $100,000 grant program supports activities delivered by grassroots organisations during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from 25 November to 10 December each year.
Funding of between $2,500 and $5,000 is available for initiatives that support community action to address the drivers of gender-based violence and help change the attitudes and behaviours that tolerate or condone violence against women.
Last year, 20 innovative initiatives were run across New South Wales during the 16 Days of Activism, including local awareness workshops, creative social media campaigns and prevention awareness events.
Taking place in community, workplace, educational or sporting settings, the activities engaged young people, boys and men, and whole communities to promote respectful relationships and reinforce social norms that reject violence and support gender equality.
Participating organisations reported a positive shift in community awareness, attitudes or engagement relating to the gendered drivers of violence.
This grant program is part of the NSW Government’s $38 million to implement the Pathways to Prevention primary prevention strategy, delivering prevention initiatives to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence and drive long-term change.
The Minns Labor Government is addressing domestic and family violence from all angles, with the recent Budget investing a landmark $184.1 million to provide a 50 per cent across-the-board increase for six core domestic and family violence programs. This builds on the work we have done to close gaps in crucial support services, intervene earlier and prevent domestic, family and sexual violence.
Local Domestic and Family Violence Committees and Networks can apply for a 16 Days of Activism grant and are encouraged to partner with local councils, community groups, organisations and schools to deliver activities within their communities that encourage further safety and respect.
Applications for this year’s program are now open and close on 31 August 2026. Visit the 16 Days of Activism 2026 webpage for eligibility information and to apply.
State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:
“Everyone deserves to feel safe at home, at work and in our community. These grants are about empowering local communities to lead that change. I encourage eligible organisations across the Cessnock electorate to apply and deliver initiatives that help build a future free from violence.”
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison said:
“We must work together as a community to change the prevailing culture that tolerates gender-based violence, if we are to stop domestic, family and sexual violence.
“I look forward to seeing the new and creative ideas organisations come up with to help eliminate gender-based violence before it begins and build a safer New South Wales for everyone.”
NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner, Dr Hannah Tonkin said:
“Community organisations play a crucial role in preventing domestic, family and sexual violence. They’re in a unique position to increase understanding and awareness at the local level, build trust with community members and drive lasting change.”
Support
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, call the Sexual Violence Helpline on 1800 424 017 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For information on Men’s Behaviour Change Programs operating in your local area, contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.