Deadline: 29-Apr-26
The Community Support Fund provides small grants to support local initiatives that deliver social, cultural, and recreational benefits across Bellingen Shire. The programme strengthens community capacity, enhances local skills and resources, and maximises engagement to reach as many residents as possible. Grants range from $2,500 to $5,000 for projects demonstrating high community impact.
Programme Overview
The Community Support Fund is designed to empower local groups to deliver meaningful activities aligned with Bellingen Shire Council’s strategic plans, including Plan for the Future. It promotes community cohesion and skill development while supporting projects that directly benefit residents of Bellingen Shire.
Key Objectives:
- Deliver social, cultural, and recreational benefits
- Support local projects within Bellingen Shire
- Build community skills and resources
- Maximise participation and benefit across the Shire
Funding Structure and Duration
Grant Amounts:
- Standard grants: up to $2,500
- Enhanced grants: up to $5,000 for projects demonstrating exceptional community benefit
Funding Purposes:
- Community support initiatives
- Sport and recreational projects
- Equipment purchases for community use
- Minor infrastructure works benefiting the public
- Scholarships and certain private works aligned with public benefit
Project Duration: Typically aligned with the project’s scope; no strict maximum, but completion within the grant year is expected
Key Concepts Explained
Community Benefit: Tangible improvements to local well-being, participation, and engagement through structured initiatives, resources, or services.
Auspicied Groups: Unincorporated associations applying through a registered incorporated not-for-profit organisation with an ABN that assumes responsibility for grant management.
Minor Infrastructure Works: Small-scale improvements or constructions that provide long-term community utility, such as park upgrades or accessible facilities.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants:
- Incorporated not-for-profit organisations with a registered ABN
- Unincorporated groups with an incorporated not-for-profit auspicing body
- Registered charities listed with the ACNC
- Social enterprises operating within the Shire
Ineligible Applicants:
- Individuals, commercial enterprises, and for-profit organisations
- Organisations outside Bellingen Shire
- State and federal government agencies, including schools
- Council-appointed Section 355 Committees
- Organisations with unresolved reports or acquittals from previous grants (unless alternative arrangements are in place)
Why This Fund Matters
The Community Support Fund is critical for:
- Strengthening local capacity and community cohesion
- Supporting projects that improve quality of life in Bellingen Shire
- Encouraging skill development and resource-sharing among residents
- Delivering tangible benefits through small but impactful grants
How the Programme Works
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organisation meets all criteria
- Develop Project Proposal: Outline objectives, community benefit, and project activities
- Budget Planning: Provide a clear financial plan, including justification for requested grant amount
- Submit Application: Apply through Bellingen Shire Council’s official channels
- Assessment: Applications evaluated on community benefit, alignment with Council plans, and project feasibility
- Funding Allocation: Grants awarded up to $5,000 based on merit and impact
- Project Implementation: Execute the project according to submitted plan
- Reporting: Submit acquittal reports documenting project outcomes and expenditure
Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistakes:
- Applying without alignment to Council strategic plans
- Submitting incomplete or unclear project descriptions
- Ignoring eligibility rules for organisations outside the Shire
- Failing to provide accurate financial documentation or previous acquittals
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Clearly demonstrate community benefit and reach
- Include detailed budgets and justification for grant amount
- Highlight how the project aligns with Bellingen Shire priorities
- Ensure activities are inclusive and accessible to all residents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Community Support Fund?
Incorporated not-for-profits, registered charities, social enterprises, or unincorporated groups with an eligible auspicing body within Bellingen Shire.
2. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to $5,000 for projects demonstrating high community impact; standard grants are up to $2,500.
3. Are individuals eligible to apply?
No, only eligible organisations may apply.
4. Can state or federal schools apply?
No, schools and government agencies are ineligible.
5. What types of projects are supported?
Community initiatives, recreational and sporting activities, equipment purchases, minor infrastructure works, scholarships, and certain private works benefiting the public.
6. Are organisations with outstanding grant reports eligible?
Not unless alternative arrangements have been made with the Council.
7. Is there a geographic requirement?
Yes, projects must take place within Bellingen Shire.
Conclusion
The Community Support Fund provides vital small grants that empower local groups to deliver meaningful social, cultural, and recreational outcomes in Bellingen Shire. By funding initiatives that strengthen community capacity, enhance skills, and maximise local engagement, the programme ensures tangible benefits reach residents while supporting sustainable community development.
For more information, visit Bellingen Shire Council.