Community Initiative Grants
Currently Closed
Next round 1 March 2025.
Grants of up to $5,000 are available. Applicants must contribute a minimum of 30% (cash or in-kind) towards the total cost of the project.
Applications are open during the months of March and September and assessed during the months of April and October with funding available to successful projects shortly after.
Download the (PDF, 280KB)Community Initiatives Grant Guidelines(PDF, 280KB)
About this grant
Council values the knowledge, skill and motivation people have to take action on ideas that contribute to a thriving Surf Coast Shire community and environment. Community Initiative grants contribute funds towards community-led projects that bring people together to collaborate, upskill, share resources and put ideas into action.
Outcomes of these projects may include, for example, increased social connection, inclusion, health, wellbeing, safety, community arts, cultural or environmental outcomes, and/or upskilling of local volunteers.
Applications are assessed against the grant criteria outlines by a panel of officers.
The highest scoring projects will be fully funded and projects that are assessed with a moderate score may be considered for partial funding.
It is a requirement that all successful projects do not conflict with the 5 focus areas outlined in the Surf Coast Shire Health and Wellbeing Plan.
Other information
Projects must be inclusive of people with disability, as per the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
Guidelines and Checklist for Inclusive Events
Before applying:
1. Read the (PDF, 306KB)(PDF, 280KB)Community Initiative Grant Guidelines(PDF, 280KB) and check your eligibility.
2. Call our Grants Team on 5261 0600 to discuss your idea and ask any questions.
You may also refer to Council Plan 2021-2025 for further information.