Two new grant programs for BASC programs in New South Wales

The New South Wales Government has committed $7.8 million to establish two new grant programs for before and after school care (BASC) providers with the aim of encouraging providers to offer new, inclusive and sustainable services.  

New Innovation Grants will offer up to $60,000 to stimulate innovation in the sector and help ensure BASC services support more NSW families, including students with additional needs. 

New Development Grants will offer up to $80,000 for staff training and professional development, and marketing to increase take up and promote attractive programs for students.   

Flexibility, NSW Treasurer Matt Kean explained, will be a key feature of the grants, ensuring that services have autonomy on deciding what they need to best support their communities.

“Whether it’s funding for pilot programs, sport lessons or digital equipment, we want the best ideas to help providers deliver quality care to students,” Mr Kean said.  

“We know how important these services are for our communities, providing working parents with a range of options for their child to have a safe place to play, learn and socialise.”

NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell encouraged BASC services across the state to apply for the grants, describing them as “a unique opportunity to deliver new and innovative educational activities with community partnerships, and to look at upskilling their staff”.

“Given BASC is not a 9 to 5 job for educators, these grants could support services to offer improved professional development for their staff, which will be critical in sustaining the workforce and ultimately expanding the range of services available,” Ms Mitchell said. 

Applications for round one for both grant programs will open on 17 October 2022 and close on 2 December 2022.