Deadline: 18-Aug-2026
The Minor Grants Program provides funding for not-for-profit community organisations delivering projects, events, and activities that strengthen communities in the Devonport local government area. The programme supports initiatives that improve inclusion, participation, cultural development, recreation, and community wellbeing.
Eligible organisations can receive grants of up to $5,000, with equipment funding requiring a minimum 50% contribution from applicants.
What Is the Minor Grants Program?
The Minor Grants Program is a community funding initiative designed to support local organisations delivering projects that benefit residents of Devonport.
The programme helps community groups create positive outcomes through:
- Community activities
- Local events
- Facility improvements
- Cultural initiatives
- Recreation programmes
It focuses on building communities that are:
- Engaged
- Inclusive
- Resilient
- Connected
Purpose of the Programme
The main purpose of the grant is to provide financial assistance for one-off projects, events, and activities that improve community life.
The programme aims to:
- Encourage community participation
- Support local organisations
- Strengthen social connections
- Improve access to community activities
- Promote local development
Priority Areas
The programme supports projects across several community development areas.
Community Development
Funding supports activities that strengthen community participation.
Examples include:
- Community engagement projects
- Inclusion initiatives
- Local support activities
- Social connection programmes
Community Facilities
The grant can support improvements that benefit shared community spaces.
Projects may include:
- Facility improvements
- Community space upgrades
- Public-use resources
Cultural Development
The programme supports activities that promote arts, creativity, and cultural participation.
Examples include:
- Creative projects
- Cultural activities
- Community arts programmes
Cultural Heritage
Projects that protect and celebrate local heritage may be supported.
Activities may include:
- Heritage awareness
- Local history initiatives
- Cultural preservation projects
Economic Development
The programme may support initiatives that contribute to local economic growth.
Projects can include:
- Community enterprise activities
- Local development initiatives
- Skills-building events
Sport, Recreation and Healthy Living
The grant supports activities that encourage active lifestyles.
Examples include:
- Sport programmes
- Recreation activities
- Health and wellbeing initiatives
Festivals and Events
Funding is available for community events that bring people together.
Supported activities may include:
- Local festivals
- Public events
- Community celebrations
Funding Available
The programme provides financial assistance for eligible projects.
Grant details include:
- Maximum grant amount: $5,000
- Application rounds: Open twice yearly
For equipment grants:
- Applicants must contribute at least 50% of the total equipment cost
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to not-for-profit community organisations.
Applicants must be:
- Legally incorporated organisations, or
- Operating under the auspice of an incorporated organisation
Organisations must either:
- Operate within the Devonport local government area, or
- Demonstrate clear benefits for Devonport residents
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet several organisational requirements.
Eligible organisations should have:
- Appropriate insurance coverage
- Workplace health and safety practices
- Financial stability
- Ability to deliver the proposed project
Applicants must also:
- Have no outstanding Council debt, or
- Have an approved payment arrangement
- Have completed reporting requirements for previous Council grants
Types of Projects Supported
The programme supports one-off projects, events, and activities.
Examples include:
- Community events
- Cultural programmes
- Recreation activities
- Facility improvements
- Local engagement initiatives
- Community wellbeing projects
Projects should demonstrate clear benefits for local residents.
Equipment Grant Requirements
Organisations requesting equipment funding must meet additional conditions.
Applicants must:
- Provide at least 50% of equipment costs
- Explain how the equipment benefits the community
- Demonstrate long-term usefulness
The equipment should support community activities rather than individual benefit.
How the Grant Works
The application process involves several steps.
Step 1: Identify a Community Need
Applicants should explain:
- What issue or opportunity the project addresses
- Who will benefit
- Why funding is needed
Step 2: Develop a Project Plan
Applications should include:
- Project details
- Timeline
- Expected outcomes
- Budget information
Step 3: Submit an Application
Applicants provide:
- Organisation details
- Project information
- Financial details
- Supporting documents
Step 4: Project Delivery
Successful organisations complete the approved activity and meet reporting requirements.
Benefits of the Programme
The Minor Grants Program helps communities by supporting:
- Local participation
- Stronger community networks
- Inclusive activities
- Improved facilities
- Cultural connections
It enables smaller organisations to deliver meaningful local outcomes.
Why Community Grants Matter
Community-led projects play an important role in creating connected and resilient communities.
Funding support helps organisations:
- Respond to local needs
- Encourage volunteering
- Improve quality of life
- Create opportunities for residents
Small grants can help deliver significant community impact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Applying without meeting eligibility requirements
- Requesting funding for unrelated activities
- Providing unclear budgets
- Forgetting required contributions for equipment
- Failing to demonstrate community benefit
Strong applications should clearly explain:
- The project purpose
- Community impact
- How funds will be used
- Expected results
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for the Minor Grants Program?
Not-for-profit community organisations that are incorporated or operating under an auspice arrangement can apply.
2. How much funding is available?
Eligible organisations can receive grants of up to $5,000.
3. Do applicants need to be located in Devonport?
Applicants should operate in the Devonport local government area or show that their project benefits Devonport residents.
4. Can the grant support equipment purchases?
Yes. Equipment grants are available, but applicants must contribute at least 50% of the total equipment cost.
5. How often can organisations apply?
Applications open twice each year.
6. What types of projects are supported?
The programme supports community development, culture, heritage, recreation, healthy living, facilities, economic development, and events.
7. Are organisations with previous Council grants eligible?
Yes, but they must have completed all previous grant acquittal requirements.
Conclusion
The Minor Grants Program supports Devonport community organisations to deliver projects that improve participation, inclusion, and local wellbeing.
By providing grants of up to $5,000, the programme helps community groups create meaningful activities, strengthen connections, and support a more engaged and resilient community.
For more information, visit Devonport City Council.