• Community Partnership Programme (CPP)

    CPP is a voluntary initiative through which A$0.03 per saleable tonne of coal produced at Appin Mine is contributed to a community trust, which is administered by a Board comprising community and company representatives.

  • CPP Awards 210 Grants

    Since its establishment, the CPP has proudly awarded 210 grants to support a wide range of community initiatives. These grants have helped local schools, not-for-profit organisations, cultural groups, and volunteer-led projects deliver programs, services, and events that make a real difference in the region.

  • $3.3 Million Invested Across Wollondilly

    Since its inception, the Community Partnership Programme (CPP) has provided more than A$3.3 million in funding to projects across the Wollondilly region and surrounding areas.

Communities of interest

GM³ is committed to creating shared value and making a positive contribution to the quality of life of the communities, regions and countries where we operate. GM³'s Community Partnership Program (CPP) is committed to contributing towards the sustainable development of the local area surrounding Illawarra Metallurgical Coal’s Bulli Seam Operations. The CPP is administered by a Board, comprising a number of community and Company representatives.

Applications will only be considered for projects delivered within the following suburbs:

  • Appin
  • Wilton
  • Wedderburn
  • Razorback
  • Douglas Park
  • Cawdor
  • Menangle


Focus areas

The CPP aims to support projects, activities or opportunities that provide lasting community benefit in the following areas:

  • Community support and services – E.g. transport, infrastructure, youth initiatives, Indigenous services, disability services, early childhood support, sporting facilities, art and culture, economic development, flagship projects.
  • Environment – E.g. environmental initiatives, improvement programs and projects.
  • Education – E.g. primary and high schools, adult education, life skills.
  • Health – E.g. health services and programs.

  • Assessment criteria

    The CPP will assess grant applications based on how well the activity will:

  • Address area/s of need in the community
  • Leave a lasting impact on the community
  • Incorporate community participation and support
  • Complements other activities in the community

  • Eligibility

    Applications will not be considered for:

  • Individuals
  • Fundraising / religious/political purposes
  • Commercial or advertising requests
  • Activities that conflict with GM3’s corporate values or Code of Business Conduct. Contact our community team representative for a copy of our Code if you can’t access it on our website.
  • Projects/activities where our previous monetary and/or in-kind support did not (in our view) deliver on the intended purpose, including our requirements and expected impact(s). Due to the high number of applications we receive, meeting these guidelines does not guarantee our support. CPP retains absolute discretion over the community projects or activities we support. Applicants should not act in expectation of receiving our support, until a final decision is made

  • To apply to the CPP click in the link below:

    Community Projects Recently Supported

    Since 2004, the CPP has supported a diverse range of initiatives that make a meaningful and lasting impact across the local community. We look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of these projects and thank all applicants and community partners for their ongoing contributions. Below are the most recent grants endorsed by the CPP:
    • Wilton Public School – Shade Sails Project

      The CPP has endorsed Wilton Public School’s application to support the purchase and installation of new shade sails. These shades will provide essential sun protection, allowing students to enjoy outdoor learning and play safely throughout the years.

    • The Salvation Army – Food Van Generator

      TThe CPP endorsed The Salvation Army’s application to assist with the purchase of a generator for their food van, which is regularly used at community events. This equipment will support reliable, safe, and energy-powered service delivery across local activities. The new generator will power the BBQ van, enabling the organisation to continue providing services to an estimated 1,000 people each year.

    • CPP Supports Wilton Warriors with Goalpost Grant

      The Wilton Warriors Football Club has received a CPP grant to purchase new goalposts ahead of their 2025 debut.

      This volunteer-run, not-for-profit club provides a welcoming space for players of all ages, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship. With over 200 enrolments, the Warriors are off to a strong start – good luck for the season!

    • Menangle Community Hall – Capacity Build

      Menangle School of Arts Hall – Renovation Nears Completion

      The historic Menangle School of Arts Hall is on track to become a vibrant community hub. Thanks to Appin Mine and the Community Partnership Programme (CPP), renovations are nearly complete.

      The CPP has provided additional funding for essential items like chairs, tables, fridge, dishwasher, and hot water system, ensuring the hall is fully equipped for meetings, events, and cultural activities.

    • Appin War memorial - War memorial

      Appin War Memorial Project Supported by CPP

      The CPP has endorsed funding to support the Appin War Memorial project, helping with design, planning, construction, landscaping, permits, and signage.

      The project builds on contributions from the Department of Veterans Affairs and community fundraising efforts, ensuring this important local heritage site is preserved for future generations.

      GM3 Appin Mine continues to support memorial initiatives, helping the community honour and remember its history.

    • ​Douglas Park P&C – Outdoor Seating Support

      The CPP has endorsed funding to support Douglas Park Parents and Citizens in purchasing outdoor seating for Douglas Park Public School.

      The project provides three Felton Park settings, helping enhance outdoor spaces for students and supporting the school’s recommendations for safe and functional play and learning areas.

    • ​Appin Historical Society – St Bede’s Restoration

      The CPP has endorsed funding to support Stage Two of the restoration works at St Bede’s Church cemetery.

      This stage will focus on:

      • Restoring and stabilising damaged headstones
      • Gentle cleaning to preserve fragile inscriptions
      • Installing weather-resistant QR-coded educational signage to help visitors learn about the cemetery’s cultural and historical significance

      This project continues the Society’s efforts to conserve one of the region’s oldest historical sites for future generations.

    • Youth Solutions – ARTucation

      The Community Partnership Program (CPP) is proud to support Youth Solutions and their ARTucation program, which engages and inspires local young people through creative, culturally informed learning.

      “ARTucation is a health promotion and drug and alcohol harm prevention program for groups of First Nations young people aged 12–18 years, and their peers, that combines health education with creative arts, cultural learnings and healthy expression.”

    • ​St James Anglican Church – Carols on the Hill

      The CPP, supported by GM3, has once again provided funding for St James Anglican Church’s Carols on the Hill in Menangle. This much-loved annual event brings the local community together to celebrate the festive season with music, carols, and family-friendly activities.

      The funding will help ensure the event runs smoothly, supporting logistics, equipment, and other essentials, and continuing the tradition of creating a warm, inclusive celebration for residents of all ages.