Will there be any flexibility or opportunities for extension in the deadlines, especially for unexpected circumstances or challenges in submitting applications?

It is not impossible, but unlikely. We are operating on a tight schedule to ensure the money goes out in April, so there is little room for extensions without derailing that process. Instead, we are providing more warning on the front end to help councils prepare, and are simplifying the information needed to make the process easier to complete. That said, we will do what we can within our time constraints to assist in the case of an extenuating circumstance.