Deadline: 04-May-2026
The Murra Warra Wind Farm Community Grants Program provides funding to eligible not-for-profit organisations in the Horsham, Hindmarsh, and Yarriambiack municipalities of Australia. Grants include Small Grants up to $5,000 and Large Grants up to $20,000 for community projects.
The programme supports environment, education, wellbeing, arts, diversity, sport, and recreation initiatives that create positive local impact.
What Is the Murra Warra Wind Farm Community Grants Program?
This grant programme is part of the community investment commitment linked to the Murra Warra Wind Farm, owned by Squadron Energy.
Since 2021, the initiative has funded locally driven community projects and continues to invest approximately $100,000 annually.
Application Dates
Applications are open:
- March 16 to May 4
(Apply within the official annual funding round.)
Total Funding Available
2026 Funding Pool
- $104,000 available this year
Grant Categories
1. Small Grants
- Up to $5,000
- No matching contribution required
2. Large Grants
- Up to $20,000
Matching Requirement
- First $5,000 requires no matching funds
- Amount above $5,000 must be matched on a 1:2 basis by applicant
Eligible Locations
Applicants must be based in one of the following municipalities in Australia:
- Horsham Municipality
- Hindmarsh Municipality
- Yarriambiack Municipality
Focus Areas
Projects should align with one or more of the following themes:
1. Sustainable Environment
- Conservation
- Community sustainability
- Renewable awareness
- Waste reduction
- Local greening
2. Education and Training
3. Social Health and Wellbeing
4. Culture, Diversity and Arts
5. Sport and Recreation
- Sports participation
- Community recreation
- Equipment or programme support
- Youth engagement
Who Can Apply?
Eligible Applicants
- Not-for-profit organisations
- Community groups
- Eligible organisations located in approved municipalities
Can Previous Recipients Apply Again?
Yes. Previous recipients may apply if the new proposal is:
- A different project
- Not continuation of earlier funded work
What Cannot Be Funded?
The programme does not fund:
- Projects already started or completed
- Maintenance or repair of government assets
- Maintenance or repair of religious assets
- Ongoing operating costs
- Sponsorships
- Salary subsidies
- Event management costs
- Routine maintenance
Why This Grant Matters
Local community groups often need modest funding to create visible impact.
This programme helps communities:
- Improve facilities and services
- Support wellbeing
- Strengthen inclusion
- Build skills
- Increase recreation access
- Deliver grassroots innovation
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your organisation is not-for-profit and based in an eligible municipality.
Step 2: Select the Right Grant Size
Choose:
- Small Grant (up to $5,000)
- Large Grant (up to $20,000)
Step 3: Build a Strong Proposal
Include:
- Community need
- Project goals
- Expected outcomes
- Budget
- Timeline
- Local benefit
Step 4: Check Matching Funds (Large Grants)
If requesting above $5,000, confirm contribution capacity.
Step 5: Submit Before Deadline
Apply before May 4.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Eligibility Errors
- Applying from outside eligible municipalities
- For-profit organisation applying
- Project already started
Proposal Errors
- Weak local impact explanation
- Unrealistic budget
- No evidence of community need
- Requesting ineligible expenses
Tips for a Strong Application
- Show measurable community benefit
- Demonstrate local support
- Use clear budget figures
- Explain long-term value
- Align directly with programme priorities
- Include volunteer/community participation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who owns the wind farm behind the programme?
Squadron Energy
2. How much can we apply for?
Up to $5,000 (small) or $20,000 (large).
3. Are matching funds always required?
No. Only large grant amounts above $5,000 need matching.
4. Can schools or community groups apply?
If eligible not-for-profit entities, potentially yes.
5. Can previous winners reapply?
Yes, for a new project.
6. Are operational costs funded?
No, recurring operational costs are excluded.
7. Where must applicants be based?
In Horsham, Hindmarsh, or Yarriambiack municipalities.
Conclusion
The Murra Warra Wind Farm Community Grants Program 2026 is a strong funding opportunity for community organisations in western Victoria seeking support for local impact projects. With grants up to $20,000, it can help deliver practical improvements across environment, education, wellbeing, arts, and sport.
Strong applications should clearly demonstrate community need, measurable outcomes, and lasting local benefit.
For more information, visit Wimmera Southern Mallee Development.
