Mount Alexander Shire Council Event Grants Program 2026 (Australia)

Deadline: 16-Mar-2026

The Mount Alexander Shire Council invites applications for its Event Grants Program to support local events that strengthen community connection, wellbeing, and sustainability. Funding is available across three tiers, based on expected attendance, for events aligned with the 2025–2029 Council Plan’s strategic pillars.

Programme Overview

The Mount Alexander Shire Council Event Grants Program is designed to encourage vibrant local events that bring communities together and deliver meaningful benefits. The program aligns with the Council’s five strategic pillars outlined in the 2025–2029 Council Plan:

1. Communities: Foster healthy, connected, and inclusive communities

2. Natural Environments: Protect and enhance natural environments

3. Infrastructure: Support accessible, climate-resilient infrastructure

4. Wellbeing Economies: Promote thriving local economies that serve people, place, and environment

5. Organisation: Maintain a responsive, trusted, and effective Council

The program aims to strengthen community wellbeing, celebrate local culture, and enhance participation in accessible and sustainable events.

Funding Tiers

Applicants should select the tier matching their expected attendance:

• Tier 1: $3,000 for events expecting over 2,000 attendees

• Tier 2: $2,000 for events expecting 1,000–2,000 attendees

• Tier 3: $1,000 for events expecting under 1,000 attendees

Funding supports event planning, delivery, and engagement activities that align with Council priorities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for funding, events must:

• Align with the strategic pillars of the Council Plan

• Demonstrate clear benefits to the local community

• Promote inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability

• Be scheduled between 1 July and 31 December 2026 for Round 2

Eligible applicants may include community groups, not-for-profit organizations, or other entities capable of delivering events that meet the program’s objectives.

How to Apply

Step 1: Define Your Event

• Outline the purpose, location, and expected attendance

• Demonstrate alignment with the Council Plan priorities

• Include details on inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability measures

Step 2: Select Appropriate Funding Tier

• Choose Tier 1, 2, or 3 based on anticipated attendee numbers

Step 3: Submit Application

• Complete the application form via the Council’s grants portal

• Provide supporting documentation and budget details

Step 4: Review and Approval

• Council evaluates applications for strategic alignment, community benefit, and feasibility

• Funding is awarded through a structured, transparent process

Tips for a Successful Application

• Clearly connect your event objectives to one or more of the Council Plan pillars

• Demonstrate community impact and engagement, including inclusivity and accessibility

• Provide a realistic budget that reflects the funding tier requested

• Highlight sustainability measures, such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, or environmental initiatives

• Include any partnerships or collaborations that enhance community reach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for an Event Grant?
   Community groups, not-for-profit organizations, and other entities hosting events in Mount Alexander Shire.

2. What types of events are supported?
   Events that strengthen community connection, celebrate local culture, and promote wellbeing, while aligning with the Council Plan pillars.

3. How is funding allocated?
   Based on expected attendance: Tier 1 ($3,000), Tier 2 ($2,000), Tier 3 ($1,000).

4. What are the application deadlines?
   Round 2 supports events taking place between 1 July and 31 December 2026. Applications must be submitted through the Council’s portal before the round closes.

5. Do events need to be inclusive and sustainable?
   Yes, events must promote inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability as part of planning and delivery.

6. Can funding be used for all event costs?
   Funding can be used for planning, engagement, and delivery costs, as long as they align with the Council’s objectives.

7. How are applications assessed?
   Council evaluates applications based on strategic alignment, community benefit, feasibility, and clear planning.

Conclusion

The Mount Alexander Shire Council Event Grants Program 2026 provides an opportunity to create dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable events that strengthen community connection and wellbeing. By aligning projects with Council priorities, applicants can deliver meaningful local impact, engage residents, and foster a vibrant, connected community.

For more information, visit Mount Alexander Shire Council.