2021/22 Applications now open
Life’s better when we’re connected. That’s why, together with our local government partners, we’re helping to connect communities across WA. In 2021-22, Reconnect WA applications will be available for the total funding pool of up to $1 million based on two funding categories:
- Projects with a total cost of up to $100,000 – RAC will contribute up to 80% of the total project cost (to a maximum partnership contribution of $80,000 per project). Demonstrations / pilots / trials with a duration of less than six months are eligible within this category, and projects should be on the ground within six months of funding approval.
- Projects with a total cost of over $100,000 – RAC will contribute up to 50% of the total cost of the project (to a maximum contribution of up to $250,000 per project). A partnership contribution of up to $80,000 can be provided, even where this exceeds 50% of the total project cost. Projects which are temporary trials must have a trial period of at least six months. Projects should ideally be on the ground within 8 months of funding approval.
Detailed information on the funding requirements and application process can be found here:
Guidelines (PDF 1763KB)
Application Form Overview (PDF 925KB)
For queries, please contact reconnectwa@rac.com.au
Reconnect WA seeks to help reimagine and revitalise streets and public spaces to...
Connected
Create vibrant and active places for Western Australians to interact and reconnect with our cities and towns, and each other.Safer
Inspire and empower residents and business communities to co-design and drive change in their local area.Sustainable
Lay the foundations for longer-term changes to support safe, sustainable and connected communities.Frequently asked questions
The Fund is open to all Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Western Australia.
Individuals, Town Teams and other community and business groups are encouraged to work with their local councils if they would like to suggest a project.
Joint applications for projects that cross more than one LGA area are welcome and LGAs can submit up to three applications.
Applications open: Monday 12 July 2021
Applications close: Friday 20 August 2021 at 5:00pm
Applicants will be informed of the outcome of the assessment process by mid-October 2021.We are looking to enable local governments across WA to deliver initiatives that seek to do something differently with their communities, such as:
- Build opportunities for communities to come together by creating places where people can safely interact and spend time
- Redesign streets to reinforce the context of the area and appropriately balance the movement and place functions to better cater for the needs of users
- Create safer and ‘healthy’ streets for walking, cycling, place and interaction
- Improve access for pedestrians and cyclists to key destinations such as local centres, schools and other services and amenities
- Enhance the attractiveness and functionality of public spaces, building on the unique characteristics of the area, to activate local centres and high streets and create vibrant places
- Support local economies by enhancing access, activating streets and providing increased space
- Engage, inspire and help empower resident and business communities to get involved in shaping and driving change in their local area through co-design and by demonstrating the benefits of reimagining and revitalising streets and public spaces, and/or
- Help build the foundations for longer-term changes to support safe, sustainable and connected communities
Guidance
Detailed information on the funding requirements and application process can be found here:
Guidelines (PDF 1763KB)
Application Form Overview (PDF 925KB)
The RAC is available to provide information and guidance to potential applicants. For enquiries and more information email reconnectwa@rac.com.au.
Terms and conditions
Successful applicants will be required to enter into a Funding Agreement. Please contact the RAC team if you would like to receive a template of the Funding Agreement.
Town Teams
Town Teams are not eligible to apply for this Fund. However, in areas where Town Teams are (or wish to be) active, we strongly encourage LGAs and Town Teams to engage early to explore and maximise any potential opportunities to further strengthen LGA applications to this Fund where appropriate.
Launched projects
Hannay Lane in Dunsborough
In partnership with the City of Busselton, we converted Hannay Lane in Dunsborough into a more pedestrian friendly street.
Subiaco Pop-up Square
In partnership with the City of Subiaco, the corner of Rokeby Road and Churchill Avenue was transformed into a vibrant, community plaza as part of a six-week trial.
Gnalla Pop-up Plaza
In partnership with the City of Stirling, a vibrant pop-up plaza has been brought to Nollamara shopping centre as part of a four-month trial.
Coming soon to Perth
In partnership with the City of Cockburn, we are turning Healy Road in Hamilton Hill into a slower-speed, cycling-friendly corridor. Under the 12-month trial, temporary slow-points, road markings and painted intersections will be installed to create a safe cycling route connecting to key destinations like the beach.
The project aims to:
- Address community safety concerns about traffic volumes and speeds
- Change the street design to slow traffic and make it safe for cycling, as well as walking
- Inspire members of the local community to get involved in redesigning the street and trialling new ideas
In partnership with the City of Canning, we are helping transform the Hillview Hub in Bentley into a lively community precinct. Through the Hillview Park and streetscapes upgrade, we’re creating a new and exciting place for residents to relax and connect with each other.
The project will include:
- Upgrades to facilities and amenities in Hillview Park, including a new nature play space, multi-sports hard court and outdoor fitness equipment.
- New pedestrian crossings, street upgrades and narrow traffic lanes to improve pedestrian and cycling access to the park and shops.
- Enhanced shopfront areas to allow for alfresco dining.
- Upgrades to the existing car park, enabling it to be converted into a community space for events and markets.
In partnership with the City of Bayswater, we are revitalising the Morley Town Centre and linking Morley Galleria, Morley Library and Coventry Village together.
The project will include:
- An alfresco-style activation at the corner of Walter Road West and Wellington Road.
- A new community space in front of the Morley Library.
- Improved pedestrian connections within the Progress and Bishop Street precinct through creative wayfinding and streetscape enhancements.
Coming soon to regional WA
In partnership with the City of Greater Geraldton, we are turning Chapman Road in Geraldton into a safer, more pedestrian-friendly street. The 12-month pilot project will widen footpaths, install bike lanes and parklets, and improve pedestrian crossings.
The project aims to:
- Narrow the road and encourage slower traffic speeds
- Improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians and increase foot traffic to support local businesses
- Inform future improvements in the area
In partnership with the Shire of Northam, we are transforming the Northam Suspension Bridge and surrounding precinct. The project will feature innovative lighting, interactive art and interpretative stories.
The project aims to:
- Enhance safety
- Encourage more locals and visitors to use the bridge
- Improve this important connection to and from the centre of town
- Engage with the Ballardong Noongar community to help co-design the improvements to the bridge and the precinct
