Call for Applications: Community Projects Grant (Australia)

Deadline: 23-Aug-2026

The Community Projects Grant supports not-for-profit community groups and organisations delivering projects that improve community wellbeing, increase participation, and enhance access to information and services across Moonee Valley. The programme funds initiatives aligned with the MV2040 Strategy that create meaningful and measurable benefits for local residents.

The Community Projects Grant provides up to $10,000 for community-led projects that strengthen wellbeing, social inclusion, and community participation in Moonee Valley. Eligible not-for-profit organisations can apply for funding to deliver projects aligned with the six themes of the MV2040 Strategy and address identified community needs.

About the Community Projects Grant

The Community Projects Grant is designed to help local organisations deliver projects that improve quality of life, strengthen community connections, and increase access to services for people living in Moonee Valley.

The programme supports initiatives that respond to local needs, encourage collaboration, and contribute to a more inclusive, connected, and resilient community. Projects should demonstrate clear community benefits and align with the strategic priorities outlined in the MV2040 Strategy.

Funding Information

Eligible applicants can receive:

• Up to $10,000 per project.
• One grant per financial year across all grant rounds and funding streams.

Funding is intended to support projects that deliver measurable outcomes for the Moonee Valley community.

Programme Themes

Projects should align with one or more of the six themes in the MV2040 Strategy:

• Fair (Qeente Boordup).
• Thriving (Bandingith).
• Connected (Berbang).
• Green (Wunwarren).
• Beautiful (Ngaango gunga).
• Trusted (Dharrndun).

Applications should clearly explain how the proposed project contributes to these strategic priorities.

Eligible Activities

Projects may include activities that:

• Strengthen community wellbeing.
• Increase community participation.
• Improve access to information and services.
• Address identified community needs using evidence or partnerships.
• Deliver measurable benefits for participants and the wider community.
• Support communities of focus identified in the MV2040 Strategy.
• Encourage collaboration with local suppliers and community partners.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Incorporated not-for-profit community groups.
• Not-for-profit organisations supported by an eligible auspice.
• Organisations based in Moonee Valley.
• Organisations delivering services that benefit Moonee Valley residents.

Who Is Not Eligible?

The following are not eligible to apply:

• For-profit businesses.
• Individual applicants.
• Applicants with outstanding debts or disputes with the City of Moonee Valley.
• Organisations with existing Community Grants still in progress.
• Applicants whose project activities have already commenced.
• Applicants without the required Public Liability Insurance, unless exempt.
• Applicants whose values conflict with the Council’s commitment to diversity, tolerance, and inclusion.
• Applicants who engage in abusive, aggressive, or intimidating behaviour towards Council officers.
• Applicants who attempt to improperly influence Councillors, assessors, or Council officers.

Why This Grant Matters

The Community Projects Grant helps organisations:

• Improve community wellbeing.
• Increase social inclusion and participation.
• Strengthen local partnerships.
• Enhance access to services and information.
• Support priority community groups.
• Build stronger and more connected neighbourhoods.
• Deliver projects that align with long-term community development goals.

How to Apply

Applicants should follow these steps:

1. Develop a project that addresses an identified community need.
2. Ensure the project aligns with one or more MV2040 Strategy themes.
3. Confirm organisational eligibility and, if required, arrange an auspice.
4. Prepare a realistic project budget and supporting documentation.
5. Demonstrate measurable community outcomes and partnerships.
6. Submit the completed application before the closing date and before any project activities begin.

Application Assessment

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Alignment with the MV2040 Strategy.
• Demonstrated community need.
• Expected benefits for Moonee Valley residents.
• Community participation and inclusion.
• Strength of partnerships and collaboration.
• Organisational capacity to deliver the project.
• Value for money and measurable outcomes.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

• Clearly explain the community need the project addresses.
• Demonstrate alignment with the MV2040 Strategy.
• Include evidence supporting the proposed activities.
• Develop a realistic and balanced budget.
• Highlight partnerships with local organisations and suppliers.
• Describe measurable outcomes for participants and the wider community.
• Ensure all eligibility requirements are met before applying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid:

• Starting the project before submitting the application.
• Submitting an application without Public Liability Insurance where required.
• Providing insufficient evidence of community need.
• Failing to demonstrate alignment with MV2040 priorities.
• Preparing unrealistic budgets.
• Leaving required documentation incomplete.
• Applying while previous Community Grants remain outstanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for the Community Projects Grant?

Incorporated not-for-profit community groups and organisations, or eligible groups supported by an auspice, that are based in or deliver services for residents of Moonee Valley.

How much funding is available?

Eligible organisations may apply for up to $10,000.

What types of projects are supported?

Projects that improve community wellbeing, increase participation, enhance access to information and services, and contribute to the priorities of the MV2040 Strategy.

Can individuals apply?

No. The programme is only open to eligible not-for-profit organisations and community groups.

Can projects already underway receive funding?

No. Projects must not have started before the grant application is submitted.

How many grants can an organisation receive?

Applicants may receive one grant per financial year across all Community Grant rounds and streams.

What are the main assessment criteria?

Applications are assessed based on community need, alignment with MV2040 priorities, expected outcomes, partnerships, organisational capacity, and overall community benefit.

Conclusion

The Community Projects Grant provides valuable funding for community organisations working to improve wellbeing, participation, and access to services in Moonee Valley. By offering up to $10,000 for projects aligned with the MV2040 Strategy, the programme empowers local organisations to deliver meaningful initiatives that create stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.

For more information, visit MVCC.