Deadline: 31-Dec-2025
The Yarra Grants Program is designed to empower local communities by funding projects that improve access to, and the quality of, social, economic, and cultural life across the City of Yarra.
The program focuses on initiatives that enhance neighbourhoods, shared spaces, and community wellbeing, ensuring that projects deliver meaningful benefits for residents.
To be successful, projects must align with three key principles. They should promote access and equity by removing barriers and ensuring fair participation for people from diverse backgrounds. They must deliver clear local benefits by supporting the municipality’s communities, neighbourhoods, and public spaces. Finally, they should enable participation by fostering engagement, connections, and inclusion to strengthen social cohesion.
The program offers three levels of funding to match the scope of projects. Small grants of up to $4,000 support short-term, volunteer-led initiatives such as one-off events or pilot activities. Medium grants, ranging from $4,001 to $20,000, assist with multi-activity projects or short-term programs requiring moderate staffing and evaluation. Large grants, from $20,001 to $40,000, are reserved for more intensive, partnership-driven projects that require significant coordination and promise broader or sustained community impact.
To reflect the diverse needs of Yarra’s communities, the program is delivered through six funding streams. These include First Peoples Self-Determination and Partnerships, Healthy, Inclusive and Connected Communities, Vibrant and Resilient Local Economies, Creative City and Cultural Participation, A Climate-Resilient and Adapted City, and Safe, Clean and Welcoming Neighbourhoods.
Eligibility for the program is broad but focused on organizations, groups, and individuals with a genuine connection to the City of Yarra. Applicants must hold an active ABN or be auspiced by an eligible incorporated organization if they do not have one. Both not-for-profit and certain for-profit entities, including sole traders and social enterprises, may apply under specific streams. Applicants must also meet requirements related to governance, insurance, financial accountability, and adherence to Fair Work legislation and Victorian Child Safe Standards.
The Yarra Grants Program represents a vital investment in local development, encouraging community-led initiatives that drive inclusion, creativity, sustainability, and resilience. By supporting a wide range of projects, the program aims to strengthen connections, celebrate diversity, and ensure a healthier and more vibrant future for everyone in the City of Yarra.
Applications for medium and large grants will close on Sunday, 19 October 2025. The small Quick Response Grants will remain open until their allocated funding pool has been exhausted.
For more information, visit Yarra City Council.
