Northern suburbs groups could benefit from thousands of dollars in support this year under a scheme aimed at backing organisations that give back to their communities.

Renewal SA and the City of Playford are calling for applications for financial support from the 2026 Playford Alive Initiatives Fund (PAIF), with up to $10,000 available for community-based projects.

Last year, Northern Area Community & Youth Services (NACYS) received $7,500 to co-design and deliver a community mural with young people in its programs.

Claire Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the registered not-for-profit, said community-based support was critical for supporting initiatives like NACYS.

“For organisations like us these kinds of grassroots activities that other types of government funding cannot provide ensuring that NACYS can be a place of connection and vibrancy for children, young people and their families,” Ms Taylor said.

The volunteer-run organisation has supported the local community since 1977 by providing free and low-cost services, including childcare, trauma support and programs.

“Currently NACYS is supporting 216 individuals through community development and child, youth and family programs and 128 families through long day care, playgroup and kids club,” Ms Taylor said.

NACYS was one of 11 recipients in a successful 2025 program, when more than $63,000 was awarded to local organisations, including:

Andrews Farm Cricket Club
Community Matters Playford Inc
Eyre Sports Park Association
Hands of Hope Foundation
Munno Para Athletics Centre
Munno Para Primary School
Northern Area Community & Youth Services (NACYS)
Northern Wolves Soccer Club
Playford Uniting Church
Schools Ministry Group
Still Aware

Funded through the sale of state government-owned residential land at Playford Alive and Eyre, the annual program supports projects and groups that improve social, economic and environmental outcomes in the community.

Peter Gatsios, Renewal SA’s Executive Director of Residential Project Delivery and Assets, said the program, now in its 17th year, would continue to grow.

“You would expect as large amounts of land come to market, selling in record time, the ability to give back to more community groups would increase,” he said.

“And we would really like to see word spread around the area to make sure all community groups know we are able to help them.”

The PAIF was established in 2009. Since then, more than $800,000 has been awarded to local projects.

City of Playford Mayor Glen Docherty said it was wonderful to see the initiative grow and support the community.

“From sporting clubs, social organisations and community groups this funding has built capacity, community resilience and supported the most important thing of Playford Alive, which is its people,” Mayor Docherty said.

“I encourage organisations in Playford to submit to either expand or support a new initiative in this coming round.”

Applications are open until Friday 5 September 2026, with successful recipients notified in late September.

Funds of up to $2,500 are also available year-round.

Terms and conditions, application criteria and guidelines are available at playfordalive.com.au/PAIF