Deadline: 25-Oct-23
The Australian High Commission/Embassy Mauritius is inviting applications to support non-profit organisations working in local communities on activities that support sustainable and inclusive development.
The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a small-grants scheme managed by Australian overseas posts, under the aegis of the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Priorities
- DAP activities are primarily aimed at achieving practical and tangible outcomes of high development impact. Projects that might act as a catalyst for additional development of the community or a model for similar developments elsewhere will be welcomed. Proposals that have a disability focus are encouraged. Current priorities under Port Louis DAP are as follows:
- Human Rights/Governance
- Environment including climate change
- Blue economy
- Gender Equality
- Humanitarian or livelihood support
Eligible Projects
- Preference is given to projects that:
- show tangible and practical development outcomes and have involved beneficiaries/local communities in identifying, designing and managing the project;
- are innovative and creative;
- comply with local laws and have the demonstrated support of local authorities, including traditional leaders, district councils/assemblies and local governments;
- pay special attention to youth, disability and gender issues; and other disadvantaged groups; and
- are sustainable.
Eligibility Criteria
- DAP funds are available on a not-for-profit basis to registered community groups, NGOs and other entities engaged in development activities in Mauritius (including Rodrigues), Comoros and Madagascar. They welcome projects with a regional dimension. Regional projects including Seychelles (currently not eligible for overseas development assistance) may be considered if there are other funding sources for Seychelles.
- Eligible applicants must:
- Seek a grant of up to a maximum of AUD 60,000.
- include an itemised and fully costed project budget;
- show with the help of a timeline or work plan that the project would be completed within one financial year (1 July to 30 June) as from the date the organisation signs the acceptance letter.
- Note: Based on strong justifications, a project proposal may be exceptionally considered to be spread over a maximum of two financial years. Prior approval of the Australian High Commission/Embassy must be sought for any extension of timeframe and other variations on components; and
- clearly demonstrate how the project will help provide development outcomes for vulnerable communities.
Ineligible
- The following activities are not eligible for funding under the DAP:
- Australian or overseas study tours;
- international travel (except in exceptional cases where it is a small component of overall budget);
- grants programs run by other governments or organisations;
- micro-credit schemes and or projects that involve the return of money or loans for cash;
- permanent staff salaries or related fees;
- commercial ventures;
- purchase or rental of major assets including property or land;
- purchase of vehicles (medical/emergency or farming vehicles may be considered in exceptional cases);
- routine, recurring and/or running costs of the applying organisation including staff salaries; office rental and utility costs; spare parts; office supplies; routine maintenance and repairs (including of equipment such as photocopiers, computers, stoves, fridges etc.), and office or equipment insurance;
- administrative costs not directly related to project implementation;
- commemorative events, sporting tournaments or cultural displays, that do not have clear developmental outcomes; and
- direct support to governments.
For more information, visit Australian High Commission/Embassy Mauritius.