Deadline: 06-Jul-2026
The Australia Post Community Grants 2026 program funds locally-led projects that improve mental wellbeing and strengthen community connections across Australia. Grants provide up to AUD $10,000 for community initiatives and up to AUD $250,000 for disaster-impacted communities. Eligible applicants are Australian not-for-profit organisations with an ABN, supporting projects focused on mental health, inclusion, and local engagement.
Australia Post Community Grants Program Overview
The Australia Post Community Grants 2026 program supports grassroots initiatives that build stronger, more connected communities across Australia. It prioritises projects that improve mental wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and encourage meaningful local engagement.
The program is designed to empower community organisations to deliver locally relevant solutions, especially in areas facing social challenges or recovery from disasters.
Purpose and Objectives of the Program
The grant program focuses on strengthening community wellbeing through:
- Improving mental health and mental wellbeing outcomes
- Reducing social isolation through meaningful community connection
- Supporting locally-led and locally-delivered initiatives
- Strengthening resilience in disaster-affected communities
- Encouraging inclusive participation across diverse and vulnerable groups
- Supporting sustainable, community-driven development
In disaster contexts, the program places extra emphasis on recovery, resilience, and rebuilding social connection.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Incorporated not-for-profit organisations in Australia
- Organisations with an Australian Business Number (ABN) indicating not-for-profit status
- Organisations with an Australian bank account linked to their ABN
- Groups delivering services within Australia
Eligibility requirement:
Projects must be locally delivered and primarily benefit Australian communities.
Funding Details (2026)
The program offers two main funding tiers:
- Standard community grants: up to AUD $10,000
- Disaster recovery grants: up to AUD $250,000 for communities affected by natural disasters or major storm events
Additional funding notes:
- Unsuccessful applicants for $10,000 may be considered for smaller grants up to $4,000
- Funding is competitive and based on community impact and alignment with program goals
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
The program supports initiatives that improve mental wellbeing and community connection, including:
- Community engagement and social inclusion projects
- Mental health awareness and wellbeing programs
- Local workshops and training sessions
- Peer support and outreach programs
- Digital platforms for community connection
- Recovery and resilience projects in disaster-impacted areas
- Community events and participation activities
- Volunteer coordination and support initiatives
All projects must demonstrate a clear mental wellbeing focus.
Eligible Costs
Funding can be used for a wide range of project-related expenses, including:
- Communications and outreach materials
- Website and digital platform development
- Online forums, newsletters, and advertising
- Equipment and materials for project delivery
- Training workshops and facilitator costs
- Participant travel and transport support
- Venue hire and event costs
- Project coordination and evaluation
- Reasonable administrative costs directly linked to the project
How the Program Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Identify Community Need
Applicants define a mental wellbeing or connection-related challenge in their community.
Step 2: Design a Local Project
Projects must be:
- Locally led
- Focused on mental wellbeing
- Designed for direct community impact
Step 3: Confirm Eligibility
Applicants ensure:
- They are a registered not-for-profit with ABN
- The project is delivered within Australia
- The focus aligns with program priorities
Step 4: Prepare Application
Include:
- Project description
- Target community and expected outcomes
- Budget breakdown
- Delivery plan and timeline
Step 5: Submit Application
Applications are submitted for competitive assessment.
Step 6: Assessment and Funding Decision
Projects are evaluated based on:
- Community impact
- Mental wellbeing outcomes
- Local engagement
- Feasibility and sustainability
Key Focus Areas
- Mental health and wellbeing improvement
- Social connection and inclusion
- Community-led development
- Disaster recovery and resilience
- Support for vulnerable populations
- Local capacity building
Ineligible Activities
The program does not fund:
- Capital works or infrastructure projects
- Clinical medical interventions or treatment services
- Scholarships or academic funding
- Fundraising or sponsorship activities
- Commercial or profit-making projects
- Political or religious activities
- Gambling-related initiatives
- Weaponry or military-related activities
- Projects outside Australia
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting projects without a clear mental wellbeing focus
- Weak explanation of community connection outcomes
- Including ineligible activities like capital works or fundraising
- Poorly defined target community or outcomes
- Unclear or unrealistic budget planning
- Lack of evidence for local delivery capability
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly link activities to mental wellbeing outcomes
- Show how the project reduces isolation or builds connection
- Demonstrate strong local community involvement
- Provide measurable outcomes (participation, engagement, wellbeing indicators)
- Keep the project locally focused and practical
- Ensure alignment with vulnerable or underserved groups where relevant
Why This Program Matters
The Australia Post Community Grants Program plays an important role in:
- Strengthening social cohesion across Australian communities
- Supporting mental wellbeing initiatives at the local level
- Helping communities recover from disasters and crises
- Reducing loneliness and social isolation
- Empowering grassroots organisations to deliver targeted support
- Building long-term community resilience
It ensures funding reaches organisations closest to community needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding available?
Up to AUD $10,000 for standard projects and up to AUD $250,000 for disaster-related initiatives.
Who can apply?
Incorporated not-for-profit organisations in Australia with an ABN and Australian bank account.
What is the main goal of the program?
To improve mental wellbeing and strengthen community connections.
Can unsuccessful applicants still receive funding?
Yes, applicants not awarded $10,000 may be considered for smaller grants up to $4,000.
What types of projects are eligible?
Locally delivered projects focused on mental health, wellbeing, and community connection.
Are capital projects allowed?
No, infrastructure and capital works are not eligible.
Can projects include disaster recovery work?
Yes, disaster-affected communities can receive higher funding support up to $250,000.
Conclusion
The Australia Post Community Grants 2026 program supports locally-led initiatives that strengthen mental wellbeing, reduce isolation, and build stronger community connections across Australia. By funding grassroots organisations and disaster recovery efforts, it helps create healthier, more resilient communities.
For more information, visit Australia Post.
