Shire delivers major boost through 2025-26 Community Development Fund
Published on 05 June 2025
The Shire of Broome Council has pledged to provide more than $356,000 of funding to assist 26 community-based organisations through the Community Development Fund (CDF) program.
At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 22 May, funding allocations were approved for applications under the CDF, which supports initiatives that deliver long-term social, cultural and economic benefits to the Broome community.
Now in its third year, the CDF program continues to empower local groups, sporting organisations and event organisers to deliver innovative projects and high-impact events that build local capacity and vibrancy across the region.
Shire President Chris Mitchell said the CDF was a vital tool in helping local organisations bring their ideas to life.
“The CDF supports everything from grassroots youth initiatives to major festivals that attract visitors and build Broome’s cultural and economic identity,” Cr Mitchell said.
“This year’s recipients include a mix of new and returning applicants, delivering projects that support families, young people, local talent and our unique community spirit.”
The CDF program was funded by both the Shire and Energy Developments Limited (EDL) - West Kimberley Community Fund.
The funds will help facilitate projects occurring between July 2025 and June 2026. Up to $10,000 was awarded for initiatives in Stream 1 and up to $40,000 in Stream 2.
Under Stream 1, projects will share in over $94,000 of funding. Funding initiatives include:
• Broome Motocross’ Dirt Kart Track Project - a new recreational opportunity for youth and families.
• The Skill Engineer’s ‘Second Gear’ Project - teaching disengaged youth to upcycle bicycles into e-bikes.
• Chrissy Carter Fund’s feline rescue initiative - transport cats from Broome to Perth over one year for foster care and adoption through SAFE Perth.
• Kyle Andrews Foundation’s Camp & Cable Beach Walk - giving children with serious illnesses a memorable Broome experience.
Other recipients include the Broome Barracudas Swimming Club, Judo Broome, Broome Catholic Church, Little Things for Tiny Tots, Broome Historical Society and more.
Under Stream 2, a further $150,000 was allocated. Funding initiatives include:
• CinefestOz Broome - returning for its third year to celebrate First Nations storytelling through film.
• Purple Hands Foundations’ Kimberley 9s Carnival & Student Dining Experience - a two-day event of football and personal growth to recognise Kimberley students’ positive behaviour and school participation.
• Untamed Music Festival - a major new three-day event expected to draw thousands to Broome in September.
• 6725 Postcode Event – a collaboration between local artists Stephen Pigram and Gary Gower showcasing music, theatre and culture.
The Shire has also committed support to the Kullarri NAIDOC festival, Marrugeku’s dance-theatre production Ngurragabu, and Theatre Kimberley Inc. Act Belong Commit Sandfly Circus shows.
Cr Mitchell said the CDF continues to reflect Broome’s vibrant community and the strong partnerships between local government, community groups and sponsors like EDL.
“Every dollar invested through the CDF strengthens our town’s identity, encourages participation and creates lasting value for residents and visitors alike,” he said.
“It’s always exciting to see the creative ideas and passion our community groups bring forward — from youth engagement programs and sporting opportunities to big-ticket events that boost tourism and showcase our local talent.”
Full details of the Community Development Fund recipients and grants can be found in the Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting, May 22, 2025, at broome.wa.gov.au/minutes_agendas.