Call for Proposals: Community Participation Grant Program (Australia)

Deadline: 30-Jun-2026

Merri-bek City Council’s Community Participation Grant Program provides funding to support both community groups and individuals in initiatives that promote inclusion, personal development, and active participation in community life. Grants range from $750 for individuals to $3,000 for groups, prioritizing projects that benefit diverse local communities.

Overview

The Community Participation Grant Program aims to empower residents and groups to actively engage in community life while improving personal outcomes. The programme supports initiatives that foster inclusion, accessibility, and participation across Merri-bek, enabling both collective and individual achievements to strengthen the social fabric of the community.

Who is Eligible?

For Organizations:

• Not-for-profit community groups, clubs, or organizations that are incorporated or auspiced by an incorporated entity

• Must hold adequate public liability insurance

• Must have acquitted any previous Council grants and have no outstanding debts

• Must provide financial statements and supporting documentation

• Activities must comply with local, state, and federal laws

For Individuals:

• Residents of Merri-bek invited to participate in an activity or program

• Must face financial barriers to participation

• Must demonstrate commitment and outline how the activity benefits the Merri-bek community

Funding Details

• Community Groups: Up to $3,000 per project for activities promoting inclusion and participation

• Individuals: Up to $750 to support participation in achievement or development activities

• Priority: Projects that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, migrant and refugee communities, people with disability, LGBTIQA+ communities, women, youth, children, and seniors

• Application Timing: Open year-round; applications must be submitted at least four weeks prior to the activity

• Funding Availability: Until allocated funds are exhausted

Why It Matters

The grant program strengthens community cohesion by:

• Promoting inclusion across diverse populations

• Supporting personal development and skill-building

• Enabling participation in activities that benefit the wider Merri-bek community

• Encouraging engagement among groups and individuals who face barriers to participation

How to Apply / How it Works

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm whether applying as an individual or community group.

2. Prepare Application: Include details of the activity, objectives, target audience, expected outcomes, and budget.

3. Submit Application: Submit at least four weeks prior to the planned activity.

4. Assessment: Council reviews applications for alignment with community priorities, eligibility, and potential impact.

5. Funding Allocation: Successful applicants receive grants, which must be used for the approved purpose.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without confirming eligibility or prior obligations to the Council

• Submitting incomplete applications or missing supporting documentation

• Failing to demonstrate how the activity benefits the Merri-bek community

• Planning activities inconsistent with local, state, or federal regulations

FAQs

1. Who can apply for a community group grant? Not-for-profit organizations, clubs, or community groups that are incorporated or auspiced by an incorporated entity.
2. Who can apply as an individual? Residents of Merri-bek invited to participate in an activity and facing financial barriers.
3. What is the maximum funding available? Up to $3,000 for groups and $750 for individuals.
4. Are there deadlines for applications? Applications are accepted year-round but must be submitted at least four weeks before the activity.
5. What types of activities are funded? Activities promoting inclusion, participation, skill development, and community benefit.
6. Are there priority communities? Yes, priority is given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, migrant and refugee communities, people with disability, LGBTIQA+ communities, women, youth, children, and seniors.
7. What documents are required? Proof of incorporation or auspicing, public liability insurance, financial statements, and supporting documentation.

Conclusion

The Merri-bek City Council’s Community Participation Grant Program empowers residents and groups to participate actively in community life. By supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, personal development, and social cohesion, the programme strengthens local engagement and enhances the wellbeing of diverse community members.

For more information, visit Merri-bek City Council.