Deadline: 31-Aug-2026
The Small Grants Program is designed to help individuals and not-for-profit community groups respond quickly to unexpected or emerging community needs. It funds small-scale, short-duration projects that strengthen local participation, wellbeing, and community engagement.
The program is structured to support flexible, grassroots initiatives that may not fit into larger funding schemes.
Funding Details
- Maximum grant amount: up to $3,000
- Application rounds: 3 times per year
- Project duration: must be completed within 6 months
- Reporting requirement: acquittal due within 2 months after completion
Purpose of the Program
- Address unexpected or emerging community needs
- Support grassroots and new community initiatives
- Encourage participation in local activities
- Strengthen community connections and wellbeing
- Enable quick delivery of small-scale projects
Eligible Activities
The program supports a wide range of community-focused initiatives, including:
- Short workshop series (arts, fitness, learning, skills development)
- Formation of new community groups (including incorporation support)
- Environmental and sustainability activities (clean-ups, community gardens)
- Youth engagement projects (mentoring, co-design, leadership activities)
- Small cultural or community celebrations
- Pop-up events in libraries or public/community spaces
Eligible Expenses
Funding can be used for:
- Advertising and promotion
- Catering for community events
- Project materials and supplies
- Safety equipment
- Venue hire and space rental
- Equipment hire for activities
- Facilitator, trainer, coach, or artist fees
- Accessibility supports (interpreters, ramps, sensory tools, signage)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a not-for-profit organisation or incorporated community group
- Individuals or unincorporated groups must apply via an auspice arrangement
- Must hold an Australian Business Number (ABN)
- Must have Public Liability Insurance for the project duration
- Must deliver activities primarily within Brimbank
- Must comply with previous funding acquittal requirements
Additional Requirements
- Projects must be new and not previously completed
- Activities must demonstrate clear community benefit
- Delivery must occur within the approved 6-month timeframe
- Applicants must maintain compliance with governance and reporting obligations
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Community need and relevance
- Clarity and feasibility of project plan
- Local impact in Brimbank
- Inclusion and accessibility considerations
- Value for money and effective use of funds
- Ability to deliver within timeframe
Expected Outcomes
- Increased community participation in local activities
- Stronger neighbourhood connections
- Improved access to creative, educational, and social opportunities
- Better support for youth and emerging groups
- Enhanced environmental and community wellbeing initiatives
Why This Program Matters
- Provides rapid funding for urgent community needs
- Supports small and emerging community groups
- Encourages inclusive and accessible local engagement
- Strengthens grassroots participation in Brimbank
- Enables experimentation with new community ideas
Conclusion
The Small Grants Program offers fast, flexible funding of up to $3,000 to support community-led initiatives in Brimbank. By enabling workshops, environmental actions, youth programs, and cultural activities, it strengthens local engagement and helps communities respond to immediate needs effectively.
For more information, visit Brimbank City Council.