Deadline: 07-May-2026
The National Reconciliation Week Small Grants Program, offered by Reconciliation Victoria, provides $500–$1,000 grants to support community-led activities during National Reconciliation Week 2026 in Victoria.
The programme funds events and initiatives that strengthen relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and wider communities through education, collaboration, and cultural engagement.
Programme Overview
This small grants programme supports local organisations in planning and delivering National Reconciliation Week activities that promote understanding, respect, and relationship-building between First Peoples and non-Indigenous communities.
It encourages inclusive, community-led initiatives that deepen awareness of reconciliation in Australia.
Key Objectives
Promoting Reconciliation Awareness
- Educate communities about National Reconciliation Week
- Highlight key dates from Sorry Day to Mabo Day
Strengthening Community Relationships
- Build connections with Traditional Custodians
- Support collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations
Encouraging Cultural Learning
- Increase understanding of First Peoples’ histories and cultures
- Promote respectful dialogue and shared learning
Supporting Community-Led Events
- Enable locally designed reconciliation activities
- Encourage inclusive participation across communities
Funding Details
- Grant amount: $500 or $1,000
- Purpose: Support National Reconciliation Week 2026 activities
- Location: Victoria
- Number of grants: Limited availability
Eligible Activities
The programme supports initiatives such as:
Educational Activities
- National Reconciliation Week information sessions
- Learning programs about reconciliation history
Community Engagement
Cultural Collaboration
- Joint events with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations
- Partnership-led cultural activities
Awareness and Relationship Building
- Activities promoting cultural respect
- Initiatives strengthening community relationships
Key Concepts Explained
What is National Reconciliation Week?
A nationally recognised week in Australia focused on:
- Strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians
- Promoting respect and understanding
- Reflecting on shared history
It runs annually between Sorry Day and Mabo Day.
What is a Yarning Circle?
A culturally respectful discussion method where:
- Participants sit in a circle
- Everyone has equal opportunity to speak
- Dialogue is guided by respect and listening
Eligible Applicants
The grant is open to:
- Local reconciliation groups
- Ally groups
- Local councils
- Community organisations
- Schools
- Early learning centres
All applicants must operate within Victoria.
Partnership Expectations
Applicants are strongly encouraged to:
- Work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations
- Collaborate with First Nations businesses
- Co-design activities with Traditional Custodians
- Ensure culturally safe engagement
How It Works / What to Do
Step 1: Plan Your Activity
Identify a community event such as:
- Workshop
- Cultural learning session
- Community dialogue
Step 2: Build Partnerships
Engage:
- Local Aboriginal organisations
- Community groups
- Schools or councils
Step 3: Align with Reconciliation Goals
Ensure your activity supports:
- Cultural understanding
- Relationship building
- Education about reconciliation
Step 4: Prepare Application
Include:
- Event description
- Community impact
- Partnership details
- Budget plan (up to $1,000)
Step 5: Deliver the Activity
- Implement during National Reconciliation Week 2026
- Ensure inclusive participation and cultural respect
Why This Grant Matters
- Strengthens reconciliation efforts in local communities
- Encourages meaningful engagement with First Peoples
- Supports culturally inclusive education
- Builds long-term community relationships
- Empowers grassroots collaboration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting events without reconciliation focus
- Lack of engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partners
- Poor alignment with National Reconciliation Week themes
- Limited community involvement
- Treating the grant as general event funding
Tips for a Strong Application
- Co-design activities with First Nations organisations
- Clearly link your event to reconciliation outcomes
- Focus on education and dialogue
- Highlight community participation
- Keep activities inclusive and culturally respectful
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the funding amount?
Between $500 and $1,000 per project.
2. Who manages the programme?
The programme is delivered by Reconciliation Victoria.
3. Where can projects be delivered?
Only within Victoria.
4. Who can apply?
Schools, councils, community groups, reconciliation groups, and early learning centres.
5. Do projects need Indigenous partnerships?
Yes, partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations are strongly encouraged.
6. What type of events are supported?
Educational sessions, workshops, community conversations, and cultural engagement activities.
7. When should activities take place?
During National Reconciliation Week 2026.
Conclusion
The National Reconciliation Week Small Grants Program by Reconciliation Victoria supports small-scale, community-led initiatives across Victoria that promote understanding, respect, and collaboration between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and wider communities.
By funding education, dialogue, and cultural engagement activities, the programme strengthens reconciliation efforts and builds more inclusive and connected communities.
For more information, visit Reconciliation Victoria.