Community-Led Projects

Step 1.Review the Guidelines

Review our comprehensive guidelines for community-led projects.

Step 2.Submit Your Project Details (closed)

Once you've reviewed the guidelines, you're ready to submit your project.

The online form is closed and will reopen for new applications from 1 July 2026.  

Step 1.Application Reviewed

Your application will be reviewed to determine the most appropriate project pathway. We may contact you to discuss your application or request further information.

Step 2.Application Progressed / Refused

Your application may be progressed for further investigation or refused.

A council officer will contact you directly to discuss your application and to confirm a suitable project pathway.

If refused, you will be notified of the reason for refusal.

Step 3.Planning / Delivery Phase

Depending on the scope-of-works / level of complexity / risk associated with your project, this might involve further planning and design work, approvals, or progression to delivery phase.

Step 4.Deed of Agreement

If approved for progression to a planning or delivery phase your community organisation will be required to enter into a Deed of Agreement with Shoalhaven City Council.

A Deed of Agreement clearly outlines roles and responsibilities for various parties involved in the delivery of a community-led project, to ensure the project can be delivered within budget, with all necessary approvals in place, to an acceptable standard, and SAFELY.

A council officer will be appointed to be your main point of contact. This officer will work with you / your organisation throughout the delivery phase.

Community organisations must be appropriately incorporated (ie. a legally recognised entity)

Step 5.Permission to Commence Works

You must receive Permission to Commence Works in writing from Shoalhaven City Council prior to commencing any works / construction activity on land owned or managed by Council.  

Step 6.Commence Works

You / your community organisation will continue to work with the council officer appointed to your project throughout the delivery phase.

Step 7.Handover

Once completed, all necessary documentation (such as ‘As Built Drawings’ and any other documentation requested) must be provided to Shoalhaven City Council.

This is required to ensure any new assets delivered as part of your project are registered, maintained, and insured correctly.

Step 8.Lease / Licence

If relevant (depending on the nature of your project), your community organisation may be required to enter into a lease or licence agreement with Shoalhaven City Council.

This agreement will clearly set out the terms of occupancy / use associated with any new asset(s) delivered as part of your community-led project.