Property Projects

Property projects can feel both exciting and daunting. Here’s a list of things you need to do to get started.

Who needs to approve property works?

Small projects (under $20,000 ex GST)

If your congregation is funding the work and it doesn’t involve specialist works (like heritage repairs), your Church Council can approve it. You don’t need Presbytery or Synod approval – but help is available if you need it.

Medium projects ($20,000–$100,000 ex GST)

Please complete Form 2 and email it to [email protected]. The Executive Officer Property will review and arrange approval.

Large projects (over $100,000 ex GST or specialist works)

Extra checks are needed. Complete Form 2 and email it to [email protected]. We’ll guide you through the review and approval process.

How many quotes do you need?

Simple jobs (like replacing taps, lights, or cleaning gutters):

If you have a trusted contractor with the right licences and insurance, you can keep using them.

Bigger jobs:

Get two quotes (or three if prices vary a lot, or if the job is over $20,000 ex GST).

Important:

Your Church Council is responsible for Work Health and Safety. Make sure:

• All work is done safely.
• Licensed tradespeople are used for jobs like plumbing and electrical work.

Need advice? Contact the Property Services team—we’re happy to help.

Think Green!

When upgrading or maintaining your property, consider ways to care for God’s creation and reduce costs over time. Here are some ideas:
Solar Power

Install solar panels or a solar hot water system to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.

LED Lighting

Replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights. They last longer and use less electricity.

Native Gardens

Plant native species that need less water and attract local wildlife. They’re beautiful and sustainable.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

When replacing fridges, heaters, or air conditioners, choose models with high energy ratings.

For more ideas, visit our Environment page

Funding Options

Feasibility funding is available from the Missional Property Fund or the Future Mission Fund. This can help engage professionals to assist with things like the concept, structural assessments, and facilitation of workshops with the congregation or community on ideas.

The funding for the project could come from your congregation, or the project could be eligible for funding from the Missional Property Fund or Future Mission Fund. There are also external community grants (eg local government, community organisations etc) you may wish to consider.

Project Checklist

1. Identify your need. Why is this project needed? How does it fit within the mission of your church or ministry? How will this be funded?
2. Check that your project fits with your approved Mission Plan. Please refer to the Mission Planning page for more information.
3. Work out the cost – apply for feasibility funding or obtain quotes. Feel free to contact our Property Manager to discuss options or help with obtaining quotes.
4. Obtain Church Council approval.
5. See the “Who needs to approve property works?” section above to see if you need to obtain further approvals (if so fill out the form and submit to [email protected]) and the property team will update you on the review/approval process.

If your application is not approved, then consider the feedback, and see if changes can be made to make the project successful.

Contact Us

For more information about property projects, please contact our team: