Deadline: 01-Apr-2026
The Community Development Grant provides $3,001–$20,000 in funding to not-for-profit organisations for short to medium-term projects that strengthen diverse communities. The grant supports initiatives addressing social isolation, disadvantage, wellbeing, inclusivity, and collaboration, aligning with broader Council plans and strategies.
Overview of the Grant
The Community Development Grant funds practical initiatives that support diverse community groups, including socially isolated individuals, older residents, people with disabilities, youth, culturally diverse communities, and women and children experiencing violence. The grant aims to:
- Address specific community needs and foster inclusivity
- Enhance health, wellbeing, and community resilience
- Build safer, more harmonious communities
- Strengthen organisational capacity and collaboration with Council
- Promote research and evidence-based community development
Funding Details
- Grant Range: $3,001 to $20,000
- Project Duration: Within one financial year
- Funding Type: Non-recurring, to support a wide range of community initiatives annually
- Annual Allocation: Approximately $110,000
Eligible Activities
Examples of supported projects include:
- Mental health and wellbeing programs connecting socially isolated individuals
- Partnership initiatives to reduce family violence
- Educational workshops promoting gender equity and cultural change
- Programs improving access to essential services such as food and personal support for vulnerable populations
Who is Eligible?
- Not-for-profit constituted bodies such as Incorporated Associations or Companies Limited by Guarantee
- Community groups auspiced by an incorporated not-for-profit organisation
- Schools collaborating with community groups to extend benefits to the broader community
- Applicants must pass an eligibility screening process; ineligible applications are excluded from assessment
How the Grant Works
- Application Submission: Eligible organisations submit a proposal aligned with community needs and Council plans
- Eligibility Screening: Applications are reviewed to ensure compliance with requirements
- Assessment and Funding: Successful projects receive funding for implementation within one financial year
- Project Delivery: Execute initiatives, monitor outcomes, and ensure community participation
- Reporting: Provide documentation as required to demonstrate impact and accountability
Tips for Applicants
- Ensure alignment with Council plans and community priorities
- Highlight how the project addresses specific needs of vulnerable or socially isolated groups
- Emphasize inclusivity, participation, and collaboration in project design
- Include clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and a realistic budget
- Collaborate with community partners or schools to maximize impact
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting applications without meeting eligibility requirements
- Proposing projects outside the grant’s funding range or timeframe
- Failing to demonstrate community benefit or alignment with Council strategies
- Inadequate planning for inclusivity, participation, or measurable outcomes
- Omitting financial or project reporting details
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the funding range for the Community Development Grant? $3,001 to $20,000 per project.
2. Who can apply? Incorporated not-for-profits, community groups auspiced by not-for-profits, or schools collaborating with community groups.
3. How long can projects run? Projects must be completed within one financial year.
4. Is the funding recurring? No, the funding is non-recurring.
5. What types of activities are supported? Mental health programs, family violence initiatives, educational workshops, and essential services for vulnerable populations.
6. How is eligibility determined? Applications undergo a screening process to ensure compliance with the grant’s criteria.
7. How much is allocated annually for this grant category? Approximately $110,000 is available each year.
Conclusion
The Community Development Grant supports not-for-profit organisations in delivering impactful, inclusive, and practical initiatives that address community needs, foster wellbeing, and strengthen resilience. By funding targeted projects within a single financial year, the program promotes collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainable positive outcomes for diverse communities.
For more information, visit Manningham Council.
