Deadline: 07-Nov-2025
The South Australian Government, through the Department of Human Services, is offering one-off grants to support youth-led events and activities during South Australia Youth Week (SAYW) 2026, which will take place from 9 to 17 April 2026.
The overall purpose of SAYW 2026 is to celebrate young people and youth culture and to encourage all young people to participate in their communities. SAYW represents an opportunity to gain insights from local young people to inform what services or opportunities are available in their community. They encourage organisations to embed a youth community engagement opportunity into their SAYW event.
One-off grants of up to $2,500 (excluding GST) are available to eligible organisations hosting events in both metropolitan and regional South Australia, with the aim of allocating half of the grants to rural and regional areas.
To be eligible, applicants must be a council under the Local Government Act 1999 (SA), an Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation, or another not-for-profit incorporated organisation. Applicants must also match the grant funding either dollar for dollar, through in-kind support, or a combination of both. Eligible organisations must be currently operating within South Australia, hold a valid ABN, have an Australian bank account, and ensure the funded events take place during SAYW 2026.
Regional and rural organisations can use funds to cover transport costs for young people, and priority will be given to events supporting disadvantaged groups such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, those with disabilities, in out-of-home care, LGBTIQA+ youth, young carers, CALD youth, and those in rural areas, the youth justice system, or at risk of homelessness.
Events held outside the SAYW 2026 dates or outside South Australia, as well as requests for facility upgrades, alcohol purchases, salary subsidies, or fundraising activities, are not eligible for funding.
Successful applicants must enter into a Grant Funding Agreement with the Department of Human Services, ensure expenditure of funds on approved activities, keep receipts, and provide a final report and financial acquittal by 15 May 2026. All events must acknowledge the support of SAYW and the South Australian Government in promotional materials.
If music is played or performed at SAYW events, organisers must obtain an APRA AMCOS public performance licence at their own expense to cover the rights of songwriters, composers, and music publishers. Applications for the SAYW 2026 grants close on 7 November 2025 at 3:00 pm, with successful applicants to be notified by 31 January 2026.
For more information, visit Government of South Australia.
