Deadline: 18-May-2026
The Annual Grants Program (Boroondara) provides funding to not-for-profit community organisations to deliver local projects aligned with the Boroondara Community Plan 2025–35. It supports initiatives in health, wellbeing, arts, inclusion, environment, and sustainability, with strict eligibility, funding caps, and reporting requirements.
The program strengthens community wellbeing by funding grassroots projects that deliver measurable local impact across the City of Boroondara.
The Annual Grants Program supports not-for-profit organisations delivering community projects that improve wellbeing, sustainability, inclusion, and local development in the City of Boroondara. It is aligned with the Boroondara Community Plan 2025–35, ensuring all funded activities contribute to long-term community priorities.
Program Objectives (What the Grants Support)
Health, Wellbeing, and Social Connection
- Physical activity programs
- Mental health and wellbeing initiatives
- Community engagement and participation activities
Safety and Community Resilience
Arts, Culture, and Creativity
Diversity, Inclusion, and Reconciliation
- Multicultural engagement activities
- Inclusion programs for vulnerable groups
- Reconciliation-focused initiatives
Environment and Sustainability
- Tree planting and biodiversity projects
- Circular economy initiatives (reuse, recycling, waste reduction)
- Climate action and sustainability programs
Learning and Local Economy
- Lifelong learning programs
- Skills and capacity-building initiatives
- Local economic development activities
Funding Rules and Limits
- Maximum total funding per applicant: up to $15,000
- Multiple applications allowed (within cap)
- Project duration: up to 12 months or until 31 December 2027
- Projects must not begin before approval
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Not-for-profit community organisations
- Incorporated community groups
- Auspiced groups (where applicable)
- Local organisations benefiting Boroondara residents
- Artists (arts and culture category only, with valid ABN)
Required Conditions
Applicants must have:
- ABN or valid exemption
- Public liability insurance
- Proper governance structure (committee or board)
- Sound financial management systems
- Legal, safety, and compliance adherence
Why This Grant Matters
The program supports:
- Stronger community wellbeing
- Inclusive participation and access
- Environmental sustainability outcomes
- Cultural and creative development
- Social cohesion and reconciliation
- Local resilience and engagement
It ensures funding is directed toward projects that deliver direct, measurable community benefit.
How the Grant Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Project
- Define community need
- Set outcomes and impact measures
- Prepare budget and timeline
Step 2: Check Eligibility
- Confirm governance requirements
- Ensure insurance and documentation are valid
- Align with Community Plan 2025–35 priorities
Step 3: Submit Application
- Submit one or multiple applications (within funding limit)
Step 4: Assessment
Applications are assessed on:
- Alignment with community priorities
- Community benefit and impact
- Feasibility and planning quality
- Organisational capability
Step 5: Funding Agreement
- Sign formal agreement before receiving funds
Step 6: Delivery
- Implement approved project
- Track expenditure and outcomes
Step 7: Reporting
- Submit evaluation report
- Provide financial documentation
- Return unspent funds over $150
- Acknowledge City of Boroondara and Rotary Club of Balwyn
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting project before approval
- Weak alignment with community priorities
- Missing financial or governance documents
- Exceeding funding cap
- Poor budgeting or unclear outcomes
- Late or incomplete reporting
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly link project to Community Plan themes
- Demonstrate measurable community benefit
- Include partnerships or community support
- Provide detailed and realistic budgeting
- Highlight inclusion and accessibility outcomes
- Show strong governance and delivery capacity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
Not-for-profit organisations, incorporated groups, and eligible artists in Boroondara.
2. What is the maximum funding?
Up to $15,000 total per applicant.
3. Can I submit multiple applications?
Yes, as long as the total does not exceed $15,000.
4. When can projects start?
Only after funding approval.
5. How long can projects run?
Up to 12 months or until 31 December 2027.
6. What reporting is required?
Final evaluation, financial records, and return of unused funds above $150.
7. Are individual artists eligible?
Yes, under arts and culture with a valid ABN.
Conclusion
The Annual Grants Program (Boroondara) supports community-led projects that strengthen wellbeing, inclusion, sustainability, and cultural life. It ensures funding delivers meaningful, measurable impact aligned with the Boroondara Community Plan 2025–35.
For more information, visit City of Boroondara.