Community Services Minister Linda Burney last week announced an investment of $489,897 by the Keneally Government for five community-building projects in the Upper Hunter.

“The Dungog Film Festival will receive $169,698 over two years to create a community-involved council, aimed at improving activities and projects particularly for youth and the elderly in Dungog,” Ms Burney said.

The grant is part of the Keneally Government’s $10.7 million investment in community building projects in NSW.

It will be rolled out over three years to 95 organisations as part of the Community Builders Program, administered by Community Services.

“This is about helping not-for-profit organisations – big and small – to strengthen their local communities,” she said.

“People from all different backgrounds will gain from this investment, including disadvantaged individuals and families, migrants and Aboriginal people.”