The Regional Business Improvement Program has opened to support small-to-medium manufacturers across regional NSW through a structured audit process rather than direct financial assistance. The program is designed to help businesses identify operational improvements, understand expected implementation costs, and assess potential productivity gains linked to lean and continuous improvement practices.
Applications opened on 10 December 2025 and close at 4:00 pm on 23 January 2026. Successful applicants will receive a department-funded audit delivered by a provider appointed by the NSW Government.
Focus on capability before capital
Unlike grant programs that provide funding for equipment or expansion, this initiative centres on diagnostic work. Each successful business will receive an audit examining how lean principles could be applied within existing operations, including an estimate of efficiency improvements and associated costs.
The audit process will culminate in a report that outlines operational needs, opportunities for improvement, and quantifiable metrics showing potential return on investment and efficiency gains if recommendations are implemented. The scope of the program does not extend to funding the implementation of audit findings.
Who the program is designed for
The program targets SME manufacturers operating in regional NSW, defined as businesses with between 10 and 200 full-time equivalent employees. Eligible applicants must operate a manufacturing facility in one of the 95 regional local government areas, the Unincorporated Far West, or Lord Howe Island, and hold a valid manufacturing industry classification.
Applicants must also meet standard requirements relating to insurance, legal standing, and access to the appointed audit provider during the program period.
Delivery timeframe and assessment process
Projects are expected to commence by 1 February 2026 and be completed by 30 June 2026. Applications will be assessed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility and available program funding.
Assessment involves an initial eligibility check, review by an assessment panel, and final determination by the Executive Director, Regional Economic Development. The department has noted that it typically receives more applications than it can support, and eligible applications are not guaranteed approval.
Role of government and oversight
The program is administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, with departmental staff coordinating assessment and delivery. The department may seek advice from subject matter experts and probity advisors to support consistent and fair decision-making.
Successful applicants will receive a conditional offer and may be required to maintain confidentiality until any public announcement is made.
Next steps for interested manufacturers
Manufacturers considering the program are encouraged to prepare documentation early and submit applications ahead of the closing date, as suitable applications will be supported in the order they are received until funding is exhausted.
