Deadline: 12-Oct-2025
The Community Grants Program administered by Community Bank Coleambally provides an opportunity for community and not-for-profit organisations to access funding that supports projects with a clear community benefit.
These grants are designed to contribute to positive outcomes across a wide range of areas, including social welfare, environmental sustainability, education, cultural initiatives, health, and community development. Applicants are encouraged to read the guidelines carefully before beginning their application to ensure eligibility and alignment with the program’s objectives.
The program is grounded in Bendigo Bank’s social purpose, which is guided by its commitment to “feeding into prosperity.” This vision reflects the bank’s dedication to creating positive social change through its services, products, and direct support for communities. Projects that align with this purpose may demonstrate benefits in areas such as animal welfare, community resilience, digital innovation, disaster recovery, environmental initiatives, financial wellbeing, housing, safety, learning and skills development, and social cohesion.
Eligibility for the grants requires applicants to be incorporated community or not-for-profit organisations. Those who are not incorporated can still apply if they partner with an incorporated organisation willing to act as the project partner and enter into the funding agreement. Applicants must also hold a valid Australian bank account. Individuals, unincorporated organisations without an eligible project partner, for-profit entities, or organisations that have an unsatisfactory outcome in required compliance checks are not eligible to apply.
Funding can be used only for projects that directly align with the intended community outcomes of the program. The grants will not support activities that are commercial in nature, provide private benefit, or take place outside Coleambally and its surrounding districts. Projects involving gambling, political activity, harm to animals, environmental hazards, violence, or any form of exclusion will not be considered. In addition, activities that compromise public health or safety, contribute to modern slavery, or are based outside of Australia are ineligible for funding.
Applicants are required to provide supporting documentation that demonstrates the feasibility and accountability of their project. For small grants under $10,000, organisations must supply a current bank statement, a detailed project budget with quotes for major expenses, and, if applicable, letters of support or evidence of community need. Applications involving a project partner must also include their financial details and written confirmation of support. Proof of additional funding or in-kind contributions, along with all necessary permits, licences, and insurance, must also be submitted. For projects involving children, Working With Children Checks for relevant staff or volunteers are mandatory.
For larger grants exceeding $10,000, additional documentation is required. Applicants must provide signed and audited financial statements or, where audits are not mandatory, profit and loss statements and a balance sheet. More detailed evidence such as multiple quotes for major expenses, project designs or plans, and position descriptions for wage requests may also be necessary. Projects that have been previously delivered should include invoices or receipts as proof of past expenditure. Letters of support demonstrating wide community benefit are particularly valuable for larger initiatives, especially those involving sport or recreation.
Through this program, Community Bank Coleambally is not only offering financial assistance but also encouraging a culture of accountability, collaboration, and sustainable community growth. By ensuring projects align with the social purpose focus and contribute to long-term positive outcomes, the grants provide a pathway for local organisations to strengthen their impact and deliver meaningful change for their communities.
For more information, visit Community Bank Coleambally.
