Deadline: 15-May-2026
The Active Inner West Grant provides up to $5,000 per year for two years to support sport and active recreation programs in the Inner West. It focuses on increasing participation, improving inclusion, and promoting healthy, active communities. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups delivering sustainable physical activity initiatives.
What is the Active Inner West Grant?
The Active Inner West Grant, offered by the Inner West Council, supports community-led sport and active recreation programs that promote health, inclusion, and participation.
The program is designed to help local organizations deliver accessible and sustainable physical activity initiatives for Inner West residents.
Funding Details
Grant Amount
- Up to $5,000 per year
Duration
- Up to 2 years (multi-year funding)
Project Focus
- Must involve physical activity or movement
- Should continue beyond the funding period
Key Objectives
- Remove barriers to participation
- Promote active and healthy lifestyles
- Increase regular participation in sport and recreation
- Encourage inclusive and diverse engagement
- Build organizational capacity through skills and training
Key Focus Areas
1. Participation and Inclusion
- Expanding access to sport and recreation
- Supporting underrepresented groups
2. Community Health
- Promoting physical and mental wellbeing
- Encouraging active lifestyles
3. Sustainability
- Long-term program development
- Ongoing community engagement
4. Capacity Building
- Training and development for organizations
- Improving service delivery
Key Concepts Explained
Active Recreation
Physical activities done for leisure, fitness, or enjoyment, such as sports, exercise programs, or community fitness sessions.
Community Participation
Engaging local residents in regular, structured activities that benefit their wellbeing.
Inclusive Programming
Designing activities that are accessible to people of all backgrounds and abilities.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Incorporated not-for-profit organizations
- Unincorporated community groups (with auspice support)
Requirements
- Must be based in or serve the Inner West community
- Must align with Council strategies and policies
- Only one application per project
Ineligible Applicants and Activities
- Organizations with outstanding obligations to the Council
- Government departments
- For-profit organizations
- Projects already started
Not Funded
- General operational costs
- Capital works (except specific cases)
- Permanent staff salaries
- Projects benefiting individuals only
Why This Grant Matters
- Promotes healthier communities
- Increases access to sport and recreation
- Supports inclusive participation
- Builds stronger community organizations
- Encourages long-term sustainability
How to Apply / How It Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify a community need related to physical activity
- Design a sustainable recreation program
- Prepare a detailed project plan and budget
- Submit your application through the council portal
- Await assessment and results
What to Include in Your Application
- Project description and objectives
- Target participants and community benefits
- Activity plan and timeline
- Budget with supporting documents
- Evidence of organizational capacity
Assessment Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Project quality and impact
- Alignment with Council priorities
- Contribution to inclusion and participation
- Applicant’s capacity to deliver
- Budget feasibility and transparency
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly show how your project increases participation
- Highlight benefits for diverse or underserved groups
- Provide a realistic and detailed budget
- Demonstrate long-term sustainability
- Align with local community needs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting unclear or poorly defined projects
- Weak alignment with program objectives
- Unrealistic budgets
- Focusing on individual rather than community benefit
- Applying after the project has already started
FAQs
1. What is the funding amount?
Up to $5,000 per year for two years.
2. Who can apply?
Non-profit organizations and community groups in the Inner West.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Sport and active recreation programs promoting participation and wellbeing.
4. Can individuals apply?
No, only organizations or groups (with auspice if needed).
5. Are ongoing costs funded?
No, the grant supports defined projects, not operational expenses.
6. What is the project duration?
Up to two years.
7. What is the main goal?
To increase participation in sport and active recreation in the community.
Conclusion
The Active Inner West Grant is a valuable opportunity for community groups to deliver inclusive, sustainable, and impactful recreation programs. By supporting initiatives that promote health and participation, the program helps build a more active, connected, and resilient Inner West community.
For more information, visit Inner West Council.
