Applications open for Community Development Fund (Australia)

Deadline: 30-Jun-2026

The Community Development Fund supports communities in implementing Local Development Strategy (LDS) plans. Through two funding streams, it provides up to $500,000 for project management and up to $2 million for development and diversification initiatives, helping communities build economic capacity and new opportunities.

Fund Overview

The fund maintains momentum from LDS programs, promoting economic transition, industry development, and community capability. It enables project management, skills development, and investment in local opportunities identified in LDS plans.

Funding Streams

• Stream 1 – Project Management & Community Capacity:
  • Up to $500,000 per town/community
  • Supports coordination of Innovation Working Groups, administrative tasks, enabling activities, community meetings, and communications strategy
• Stream 2 – Development & Diversification:
  • Up to $2 million per town/community
    • $500,000 guaranteed funding (meeting eligibility and assessment criteria)
    • Up to $1.5 million competitive funding awarded on merit
  • Supports opportunities for diversification, infrastructure projects, and job creation

Who is Eligible

• Incorporated community organizations, local governments, business/industry clusters, non-profits, chambers of commerce, business associations, and education/research organizations
• Private sector businesses and utility/service providers eligible under Stream 2 for diversification or infrastructure projects

How to Apply / How it Works

1. Identify projects aligned with your Local Development Strategy.
2. Choose the appropriate funding stream based on project type.
3. Submit an application demonstrating eligibility and alignment with LDS goals.
4. For Stream 2, applications are assessed competitively once guaranteed funding is allocated.

Tips / Common Mistakes

• Ensure projects clearly align with LDS objectives.
• Submit required documentation for eligibility and assessment.
• For Stream 2, highlight economic impact, investment potential, and job creation.

FAQs

1. What types of projects are funded? Project management, capacity-building, diversification, and infrastructure initiatives.
2. How much funding is available? Stream 1: up to $500,000; Stream 2: up to $2 million.
3. Who can apply? Community organizations, local government, non-profits, businesses, and research/education institutions.
4. Is competitive funding included? Yes, Stream 2 includes $1.5 million competitive funding.
5. Can private businesses apply? Yes, under Stream 2 for diversification or infrastructure projects.
6. What activities are supported under Stream 1? Innovation Working Groups, enabling activities, admin, community engagement, and communications.
7. Are jobs and investment considered? Yes, projects that create jobs or attract investment are prioritized under Stream 2.

Conclusion

The Community Development Fund empowers communities to implement LDS plans, build skills, diversify their economies, and create sustainable opportunities, ensuring long-term local development and growth.

For more information, visit Business.gov.au.