Deadline: 05-Jun-2026
The Wayahead Small Grant Program 2026 provides funding for community-led mental health initiatives in New South Wales during Mental Health Month (October). It supports innovative, inclusive projects that engage communities and involve people with lived experience.
Overview
The Wayahead Small Grant Program 2026 supports community-driven mental health initiatives आयोजित during Mental Health Month in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
The programme funds local projects that promote awareness, inclusion, and community engagement around mental health.
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Promote mental health awareness at the community level
- Encourage inclusive and participatory initiatives
- Support innovative and creative approaches to mental wellbeing
- Amplify voices of people with lived experience
- Strengthen engagement with marginalised communities
Key Focus Areas
Projects should align with:
- The official Mental Health Month theme (for October)
- Community engagement and outreach
- Inclusion of diverse and underserved groups
Priority Groups
Projects involving the following groups are encouraged:
- Youth and young people
- LGBTQIA+ communities
- Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- People with lived experience of mental ill-health
Funding Purpose
The grant supports:
- Community events and campaigns
- Awareness activities during October
- Workshops, discussions, and outreach programmes
- Creative and innovative mental health initiatives
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must:
- Be based in or serve communities in New South Wales
- Represent one of the following:
- Community groups
- Not-for-profit organisations
- Schools
- Local service providers
Mandatory Requirements
- Project must take place during October (Mental Health Month)
- Must align with the official theme
- Must demonstrate capacity to plan and deliver the project
- Must have a designated contact person
- Must be able to provide formal invoicing documentation
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Innovation and Creativity
- Unique and engaging project ideas
- Community Reach and Engagement
- Ability to involve and impact local communities
- Feasibility and Planning
- Clear implementation plan and timeline
- Alignment with Theme
- Strong connection to Mental Health Month theme
- Inclusion and Representation
- Involvement of people with lived experience and marginalised groups
Assessment Process
- Applications are reviewed by an independent panel
- Panel includes:
- Mental health experts
- Sector professionals
- Individuals with lived and community experience
Important Note
- Wayahead staff are NOT involved in final decision-making
- Ensures fairness, transparency, and impartial evaluation
Why This Programme Matters
This programme is important because it:
- Supports grassroots mental health initiatives
- Encourages community-led awareness and action
- Promotes inclusion and equity in mental health support
- Helps reduce stigma around mental health
- Strengthens local capacity to address mental wellbeing challenges
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Understand the Theme
Review the official Mental Health Month theme for October - Design Your Project
Define:
- Objectives and target audience
- Activities and timeline (October focus)
- Community engagement strategy
- Ensure Eligibility
Confirm your organisation type and NSW connection - Prepare Application
Include:
- Project proposal
- Implementation plan
- Budget and resource needs
- Contact person details
- Submit Application
Apply through the official Wayahead grant platform - Await Results
Applications are assessed by an independent expert panel
Key Tips for Applicants
- Focus on community impact and participation
- Include voices of people with lived experience
- Ensure strong alignment with the theme
- Keep your project realistic and achievable within October
- Demonstrate inclusivity and diversity clearly
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Projects not aligned with Mental Health Month theme
- Weak planning or unclear timelines
- Lack of community engagement
- Missing required documentation (e.g., invoicing ability)
- No designated project contact person
FAQs
1. Who can apply for this grant?
Community groups, nonprofits, schools, and local services in NSW.
2. When should the project take place?
During Mental Health Month in October.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Community-based mental health awareness events and initiatives.
4. Is collaboration required?
Not mandatory, but community involvement is strongly encouraged.
5. Who evaluates the applications?
An independent panel of experts and community representatives.
6. Are Wayahead staff involved in selection?
No, to ensure impartiality.
7. What is a key success factor?
Strong community engagement and inclusion of lived experience perspectives.
Conclusion
The Wayahead Small Grant Program 2026 is a valuable opportunity for organisations to lead impactful mental health initiatives at the community level.
By supporting inclusive, creative, and locally driven projects, the programme plays a vital role in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and strengthening mental wellbeing across New South Wales.
For more information, visit Wayahead.
