Animal rescue and rehoming organisations across New South Wales can now apply for a share of $1.5 million in government funding to support the care and rehoming of vulnerable cats and dogs.
Applications have opened for Round 2 of the NSW Companion Animal Welfare and Rehoming Grant Program, with eligible organisations able to apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000.
Applications opened on 17 September 2026 and will close at 5pm on 9 October 2026.
$6 Million Program Over Four Years
The broader grant program provides $6 million over four years, with $1.5 million available each year to support animal welfare and rehoming organisations across NSW.
Eligible applicants include designated companion animal rehoming organisations and registered animal welfare charities based in NSW.
According to the NSW Government, the program is designed to improve animal welfare outcomes, strengthen the capacity of rehoming organisations and support the long-term delivery of companion animal services.
What the Funding Can Be Used For
Grant funding can support a range of animal welfare and rehoming activities, including:
- Desexing, microchipping and vaccinations
- Veterinary treatment
- Animal training and rehabilitation
- Facility and infrastructure upgrades
- Community education programs
- Emergency animal welfare support during natural disasters
The funding is aimed at helping organisations meet the costs associated with rescuing, caring for and preparing animals for adoption.
58 Organisations Funded in Previous Round
In the previous round, 58 animal welfare and rehoming organisations across NSW shared $1.5 million in funding.
The first round attracted 97 applications, with successful organisations receiving support for projects including veterinary treatment, desexing programs, facility upgrades, emergency care and improved rehoming services.
Individual grants awarded in the previous round included support for organisations such as CatRescue901, Sydney Animal Second-chance and regional rescue groups, with projects focused on reducing unwanted litters, improving access to veterinary care and expanding rehoming capacity.
Supporting Volunteer-Led Rescue Groups
Many animal rescue and rehoming organisations across NSW rely heavily on volunteers and community donations to operate.
Their work can help reduce pressure on council pounds, provide medical and behavioural support for vulnerable animals and increase the chances of cats and dogs being successfully rehomed.
The NSW Government says the grants are intended to strengthen the capacity and sustainability of these organisations while improving animal welfare outcomes across the state.
Applications for Round 2 of the Companion Animal Welfare and Rehoming Grant Program close at 5pm on 9 October 2026.
Information on how to apply for the Companion Animal Welfare and Rehoming Grant Program is available on the NSW Government grants and funding website:https://tinyurl.com/3kn5c2md
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