Deadline: 02-Mar-2026
The Justice Anew Change Grants Stream supports Victorian Community Legal Centres to deliver transformational initiatives that improve access to legal assistance, streamline service delivery, and enhance justice outcomes. Funded projects focus on collaboration, innovation, and system-level reforms, with multi-year funding available for initiatives demonstrating measurable, long-term impact.
Overview of the Grant
The Justice Anew Change Grants Stream aims to strengthen the Victorian Community Legal Sector by funding ambitious, collaborative initiatives that transform how legal assistance is delivered. The program encourages projects that:
-
Make legal assistance easier to understand, access, and navigate
-
Resolve legal issues more quickly and effectively
-
Ensure equitable access for regional, rural, and remote communities
-
Expand overall access to legal support and reduce systemic barriers
-
Deliver tailored assistance that reflects different levels of capability
-
Promote operational efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness
The grant focuses on system-level improvements rather than individual organizational projects, fostering sector-wide collaboration and shared long-term impact.
Who is Eligible
Eligible applicants must:
-
Be Victorian-based Community Legal Centres
-
Demonstrate capacity to deliver system-level initiatives
-
Align strongly with the grant objectives
-
Show a commitment to partnerships and collaborative approaches benefiting the broader legal assistance ecosystem
Funding Details
-
Funding period: 1–3 years (multi-year funding possible)
-
Funding is tailored and time-limited
-
Projects must commence after approval
-
Designed for transformational, sector-wide initiatives rather than routine operations
Key Focus Areas
-
System redesign and innovation to improve justice outcomes
-
Use of technological advancements to streamline service delivery
-
Development of new service models or operational reforms
-
Strategies for cost reduction and efficiency
-
Cross-sector partnerships to deliver measurable, lasting improvements
-
Ensuring equitable access for all Victorian communities, including underserved areas
How to Apply
Step 1: Develop Proposal
-
Define the shared vision and long-term impact for the legal assistance sector
-
Outline strategies for collaboration, innovation, and system-level reform
-
Include clear objectives, expected outcomes, and measurable indicators
Step 2: Prepare Application
-
Detail organizational capacity and experience in delivering transformational initiatives
-
Demonstrate alignment with grant objectives and sector-wide benefit
-
Include project timeline, budget, and evaluation plan
Step 3: Submit Application
-
Follow guidelines for submission set by the funding body
-
Ensure clarity of strategy, feasibility, and collaborative approach
-
Highlight expected sector-wide impact and sustainability
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Proposing isolated organizational projects rather than system-level initiatives
-
Failing to demonstrate collaboration or shared vision
-
Submitting unclear or incomplete budget or evaluation plans
-
Neglecting to consider regional, rural, and remote accessibility
-
Overlooking opportunities for technology integration or service model innovation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
Victorian-based Community Legal Centres with capacity to deliver collaborative, transformational projects.
2. What is the funding period?
Projects may run 1–3 years, with potential for multi-year funding.
3. What types of initiatives are prioritized?
System-level reforms, technological integration, service model innovation, operational efficiency, and cross-sector partnerships.
4. Must projects demonstrate collaboration?
Yes, strong partnerships and sector-wide benefits are essential.
5. Are regional and remote communities considered?
Yes, ensuring equitable access for all Victorian communities is a core objective.
6. Can routine operations be funded?
No, the grant is intended for transformational, long-term initiatives.
7. What are evaluation expectations?
Projects must include measurable outcomes, ongoing evaluation, and embedded sector-wide impact.
Conclusion
The Justice Anew Change Grants Stream offers a strategic opportunity for Victorian Community Legal Centres to deliver transformational initiatives that reshape legal assistance. By focusing on collaboration, innovation, and system-level improvements, funded projects can improve access, efficiency, and equity in the justice system, ensuring sustainable, measurable, and long-lasting benefits for communities across Victoria.
For more information, visit Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner.
