What if my project also relates to other categories and does not 100% reflect the four categories (Information, Capacity building, Subsidy, Bus Travel)?
Some projects may sit across more than one category. You need to identify what proportion of your project belongs in what category.
For example if you want to provide information brochures to people as well as face to face travel training, you may apply for $2,000 for brochures and $8,000 for service delivery. In this instance your application would be asking for 20% information and 80% capacity building.
Any project proposal that sits outside of the four category areas would need to be discussed with the Area Manager to determine whether it is a project that could be developed within the criteria; or whether another agency would be better placed to develop your proposal.
Will I need to provide updates during the duration of the project?
All projects are subject to evaluation. The application process will ask you to describe what the outcomes and outputs of your project will be and how these will be measured. Your project will be evaluated against these.
Some projects will have a requirement for interim evaluations. This depends upon the project size and level of complexity.
All applicants should keep in contact with the Area Manager throughout the duration of the project lifecycle advising them of any significant challenges or successes, to ensure a positive trajectory is in place and is maintained.
Failure to evaluate your project or to provide evaluations in a timely manner may restrict your ability to apply for program funding in the future and require a return of unspent funds.
Will the chances of my funding application being approved be slimmer if I do not have a funding contract with TfNSW?
No. The TARP grants program partners with many different types of organisations including NGOs, small business and local Councils.
All potential project applicants will be considered on the viability and veracity identified by the project application. This includes appropriate governance mechanisms and project management functions in place to see that the project delivers a positive outcome for customers.
Is there a cap for the amount of funding that can be provided?
There is no specific cap. However there is a limited pool of funds to be used across the state to ensure equity in distribution of funds.
This is a small non recurrent grants program and is available to primarily address local needs. However all potential applications should be discussed with the Area Manager who will advise if your request is considered feasible.
Do all questions and spaces need to be filled out?
Mandatory fields are marked with a red asterisk and must be completed to submit the application.
You will only need to fill in the sections relevant to your project. The application form is designed to provide guidance as you progress. Depending on the answers you provide, some questions will be automatically omitted.
We may also request additional information to enable the project to be properly appraised. If you have any questions, please ask the Area Manager in your region.
What attachments will I need to submit?
Attachments are not mandatory. However, you should attach any documents that are essential in supporting your application.
Documents such as quotes for service, research documents, meeting minutes or project plans may help to inform the appraisal process and should be included.
Do not send irrelevant or redundant material that does not really support the need for the application.
Should the applicant/organisation name in the online application be the same as the applicant/organisation name on the tax invoice letterhead?
Yes. The tax invoice you provide to Transport for NSW must be in the same name - and have the same ABN - as the applicant/organisation that was successful in applying for funding.
How will the funds be transferred?
You will receive a confirmation letter from Transport for NSW advising that your application has been successful and requesting you provide a tax invoice.
Upon receipt of the invoice, the funds will be transferred to a nominated bank account by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).
Any concerns about payments should be directed to the Grants Officer via email at tarpgrants@transport.nsw.gov.au
What if there are unspent funds from the project?
All funds not spent on the project are required to be returned to TfNSW. If you have any unspent funds from your project you will need to contact the Area Manager in your region and discuss this with them. There is a procedure to be followed should the funds need to be returned.
Please note that failure to report on your evaluations or to provide information on the project to TfNSW upon request, may result in a request for return of funds.
What do you mean when you ask if my project is an ‘emergency’?
This question does not mean an ‘emergency’ in the sense that the project requires an emergency services response.
Transport for NSW recognises that there are times when a request for funding might be urgent, due to an emerging need in a community or where the need was unforeseen and the impact of not receiving assistance may be highly detrimental to the stakeholders.
In these special circumstances, the project may be flagged as an ‘emergency’ if agreed by the Area Manager and the Principal Manager that there is enough evidence to support the case.
Every request for emergency funding will be considered on a case by case basis. Transport for NSW will prioritise ‘emergency’ matters for determination. However, this does not offer any guarantee that an approval will be granted.