Deadline: 15-May-2026
The Disability Support Grants by Inner West Council provide up to $10,000 per year to support projects that improve inclusion, participation, and opportunities for people with disability. The program funds both individuals and organizations delivering impactful, community-based initiatives. It focuses on accessibility, employment, creativity, and community engagement.
What are Disability Support Grants?
The Disability Support Grants, offered by the Inner West Council, fund projects that enhance the lives of people with disability through inclusive, community-driven initiatives.
The program supports activities that improve access, participation, and wellbeing across the Inner West community.
Funding Details
Grant Categories
1. Individual Grants
- Up to $5,000
2. Organisation Grants
- Up to $10,000 per year
- Duration:
- 1 year, or
- Up to 2 years (multi-year funding)
Key Focus Areas
1. Access and Participation
- Recreation, sports, and leisure activities
- Learning and volunteering opportunities
- Healthy lifestyle programs
2. Arts and Creativity
- Opportunities for artists with disability
- Inclusive cultural participation
3. Employment and Entrepreneurship
- Job creation and local employment
- Support for small business participation
4. Inclusion and Awareness
- Promoting diversity and community understanding
- Increasing participation and representation
5. Community and Leadership
- Peer learning and knowledge sharing
- Leadership development for people with disability
Key Concepts Explained
Disability Inclusion
Ensuring people with disability have equal access to opportunities, services, and participation in community life.
Lived Experience
Direct, personal experience of disability that informs authentic and relevant project design.
Accessible Communities
Communities designed to be inclusive, barrier-free, and supportive for all individuals.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Individuals
- Unincorporated groups (with not-for-profit auspice)
- Incorporated not-for-profit organizations
Requirements
- Must live in or benefit the Inner West community
- Must align with Council plans and policies
- Only one application per applicant
Ineligible Applicants and Activities
Not Eligible
- Organizations with outstanding obligations to Council
- Government departments
- For-profit entities (with limited exceptions for individuals)
Not Funded
- Projects already started
- Duplicate services
- Capital works (limited exceptions)
- Equipment purchases (e.g., electronics)
- Travel with excessive personal benefit
- Operational costs
- Political activities
Why This Grant Matters
- Promotes equity and inclusion
- Expands opportunities for people with disability
- Supports community participation and wellbeing
- Encourages innovation and leadership
- Strengthens inclusive local communities
How to Apply / How It Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify a need or opportunity for people with disability
- Design an inclusive and impactful project
- Choose the appropriate funding category
- Prepare a detailed proposal and budget
- Submit the application through the council portal
- Await assessment and outcome
What to Include in Your Application
- Project description and objectives
- Target beneficiaries
- Expected outcomes and impact
- Timeline (1–2 years if applicable)
- Budget with supporting documentation
- Evidence of skills and capacity to deliver
Assessment Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Impact and community benefit
- Alignment with Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2023–2026
- Contribution to inclusion and participation
- Applicant’s capacity and experience
- Budget realism and clarity
Tips for a Strong Application
- Center projects around lived experience of disability
- Clearly demonstrate inclusive impact
- Show strong community engagement
- Provide a realistic and detailed budget
- Align with Council strategies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Designing projects without community input
- Weak alignment with inclusion goals
- Unrealistic budgets
- Funding ineligible costs
- Submitting incomplete applications
FAQs
1. What is the funding amount?
Up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 per year for organizations.
2. Who can apply?
Individuals, groups, and non-profits benefiting the Inner West community.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Projects improving access, inclusion, employment, and participation for people with disability.
4. Can projects be multi-year?
Yes, organizations can apply for up to two years of funding.
5. Are equipment purchases funded?
No, items like electronics are generally not supported.
6. What is the main goal?
To improve the lives and opportunities of people with disability.
7. Is community involvement important?
Yes, projects should reflect real community needs and lived experiences.
Conclusion
The Disability Support Grants provide a powerful opportunity to create inclusive, impactful, and community-driven initiatives. By supporting projects that enhance participation and accessibility, the program helps build a more equitable and connected Inner West community for people with disability.
For more information, visit Inner West Council.
