The SEP Kickstart Grant Program (the ‘Program’) is a non-competitive, demand-driven, ‘first in first served’ grant program providing total funding of up to $1.2 million (excl GST), open to eligible NSW councils for the purpose of establishing a SEP. Only one complete application per council will be accepted. However, each application can comprise more than one SEP (to be consolidated in a maximum of one (1) planning proposal). Please read the SEP Kickstart Grant Program Round 3 Guidelines (Program Guidelines) before you continue in this application form.
Funding available (excl GST):
- $20,000–$200,000 to establish the SEP/s and
- Optional $10,000–$50,000 to investigate Purple Flag accreditation.
to the total maximum value of $250,000 (excl GST) per council.
Note: All councils (without an existing Purple Flag accreditation) must prepare a Purple Flag precinct self-assessment report within 6 months of execution of the funding agreement
Timing: SEP trials must start by 30 June 2028 and finish by 30 June 2029.
Purple Flag accreditation will be subject to a separate assessment and process.
Have these ready to upload
- Council resolution to establish the SEP/s and identify boundary/location including boundary map(s) for the proposed SEP/s.
- Council resolution to establish a Special Entertainment Precinct Working Group (PWG).
- Council resolution to investigate Purple Flag accreditation for the same boundary (unless there is an existing accredited Purple Flag precinct within a boundary of the proposed SEP/s) Note: One council resolution may be used to cover off all the requirements above.
- Strategic alignment evidence (such as a Night-Time Economy Strategy – refer to Appendix B of the Program Guidelines).
- Engagement outcomes report referencing the proposed SEP/s (generic engagement is not sufficient) Note: Engagement activities must have been undertaken within the last 12 months and must have included consultation with both local businesses and residents of the SEP/s area. Engagement must have been on the principle of council establishing a SEP/s. Engagement methods used to engage with each group must be outlined. A summary of the feedback from both community and businesses must be provided (for example: survey results or other reporting).
- Summary of SEP/s intended objectives and outcomes.
- Timeframe for the SEP/s establishment.
- Budget estimate of the SEP/s and Purple Flag noting the requirements of the Program Guidelines. Note: A minimum of 1 x evidence of cost is required for each eligible cost type sought. Acceptable evidence of cost includes quotes, cost estimates, reasonable assumptions or evidence from similar projects prepared by a relevant professional, within the last 12 months. Evidence provided must be in writing. Where a professional has prepared a cost estimate, their qualifications and role should be identified in the application. All costs must be reasonable, represent value for money, and reflect competitive market rates.
- Job titles of council officers involved from at least 2 different departments.
- Proposed approach to investigating Purple Flag accreditation.
Privacy, probity and publication
Your information will be managed in line with NSW privacy legislation. Grant outcomes and key details will be published in accordance with the NSW Grants Administration Guide and may be subject to access under relevant legislation.
Need help?
If you have questions about eligibility or evidence requirements, contact the Program Team before submitting your application at SEPS@24houreconomy.nsw.gov.au.
