The Access Incentive Grants are part of the Community Resilience Fund - COVID-19 Recovery Package Invigorate Gunnedah, targeted at building business resilience and supporting recovery in the wake of COVID-19.

Grants of up to $2000 are available for projects providing better access and inclusion of people with both physical and hidden disability.

Improved access will also benefit people with long-term chronic conditions, temporary impairment, seniors with access concerns, parents with young children, and associated family, friends and carers.

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Gunnedah shire councillors Gae Swain, Ann Luke and John Campbell were appointed to the assessment panel at the April council meeting.

Chair of the Access Working Group Cr Gae Swain said better access would help to foster a vibrant and connected community.

"Better access is something that benefits all Gunnedah shire residents and visitors," Cr Swain said.

"These grants will help remove barriers and improve opportunities for people with a disability of all ages, allowing them to participate fully in community life."

Working Group Chamber of Commerce representative Peter Jones said access improvements would also have flow-on benefits for business.

"We know that improving access is good for business, helping ensure businesses are not missing out on a significant customer base," Mr Jones said.

"I encourage businesses and organisations to consider if there is a project out there that can help make everyday life more inclusive to all community members."

Projects eligible under the scheme may include:

Additional ideas about projects and improved access can be found in the Gunnedah Shire Missed Business Guide.

Applications for grants close at 5pm on May 28. The grants must be matched by applicants with a 25 per cent co-contribution, and projects completed before June 30, 2022.

More information on the program, including application forms and guidelines is available at https://bit.ly/2PdOGUC