Heritage Minister Gabrielle Upton said funding is now specifically set aside for individual private owners in recognition of their efforts to care for NSW heritage.

“Previously they had to compete against companies and councils, but now there is a specific allocation for private heritage home owners,” Ms Upton said.

“If you’re fortunate enough to own a house listed on the State Heritage Register, you might be interested in applying for help with the cost of stabilisation, a new roof or window restoration. Owners of State heritage items can apply for grants of up to $150,000. 

“There is $6 million worth of grants under the two-year Heritage Grants Program, in three new streams: Aboriginal Cultural Heritage, Caring for State Heritage and Community Heritage Grants.”

Ms Upton said projects that promote heritage tourism are particularly encouraged.

“Promoting a historic building as an attraction can have benefits for the owners and there can also be flow-on benefits to local economies through jobs and money spent in regional towns,” she said.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald MLC encouraged community groups across the Hunter to apply for projects where heritage is celebrated, such as working with a local school to make short films on historical events, with grants of up to $50,000 available.

“Aboriginal Cultural Heritage is a particular focus of our revitalised grants program.  Projects might include storytelling workshops, recording of oral histories or works included in a management plan for significant Aboriginal sites, with grants of up to $70,000 available,” Mr MacDonald said.

“I encourage anyone who has a project that could fit the criteria to contact the Office of Environment and Heritage and explore the funding options on offer.”

Applications are open from now until February 8, 2019. Full details are available on the Office of Environment and Heritage website at environment.nsw.gov.au/Heritage/funding/