Applications have opened for the 2026-27 ACT Heritage Grants Program, which supports projects that preserve, celebrate and bring Canberra’s heritage to life for the community.
ACT Minister for Heritage, Chris Steel said approximately $200,000 is available for individuals, community groups, and organisations to deliver projects that conserve, protect and promote places and objects on the ACT Heritage Register, as well as Aboriginal cultural heritage.
“These grants are not just about preserving the past. They mean the stories that connect us to our city, our communities, and our shared history can continue to be told,” Minister Steel said.
“The Heritage Grants Program supports restoration work as well as creative and community-driven projects including exhibitions, digitisation, publications and oral history workshops.
“This year, we particularly interested in seeing projects that find new and engaging ways to share the places and objects on the Heritage Register with Canberrans.
“I encourage anyone with ideas to protect or share Canberra’s heritage to apply. These grants can help turn those ideas into projects that inform, inspire and connect younger generations with our history,” he said.
Priorities for the 2026-27 round of the ACT Heritage Grants Program are:
- Conservation works;
- Conservation Management Plans;
- Community engagement;
- Aboriginal heritage engagement.
“The ACT Heritage Grants program has enabled the Canberra District Rugby League (via the Canberra Raiders) to bring the rich proud history of Northbourne Oval (pictured) to public view, as we celebrate its centenary,” said Canberra Raiders Chief Operating Officer, Jason Mathie on behalf of Canberra District Rugby League.
“Funding has supported research and the gathering of personal stories that showcase Northbourne Oval’s unique place in Canberra’s history – from its early days accommodating a wide variety of community sports and local gatherings, to becoming one of the Territory’s most significant venues that has hosted sporting royalty like Don Bradman (Cricket) and Johnny Hawke (Rugby League). The project brings these stories to life through a centenary exhibition and event, a dedicated microsite, with a public mural and Canberra Tracks sign to follow.
“We’re grateful for the ACT Government’s investment in protecting and promoting our shared heritage. By making these stories more accessible, we’re preserving Northbourne Oval’s sporting and cultural legacy while creating opportunities for community connection, education and tourism for generations to come.”
Applications close 14 August. More information can be found on the ACT Government website.
