Funding bodies
Funding opportunities are available from all levels of government, including Federal, State, and local, philanthropic trusts and corporations. This is by no means an exhaustive list of possible grants, and should be used for ideas on what grants are available. Community groups are encouraged to search the internet for grants that specifically suit them and network with other organisations on possible funding options. Some websites that may be helpful in finding a suitable grant are listed below.
For tips on how to raise funds and apply for grants click here.
Government funding
Local government grants
Details: Many local councils offer community development grants of up to $5000. As part of the application process they conduct information and support sessions to help eligible groups develop their grant applications.
How much: Up to $5000
Details: Contact your local council for more information and submission dates. For a full list of Victorian councils and their contact details go to the Department of Planning and Community Development www.dvc.vic.gov.au/web20/dvclgv.nsf/headingpagesdisplay/find+your+local+council
Community grants program – Victorian Multicultural Commission
Details: The aim of the grants program is to strengthen the capacity of individuals to manage their own affairs, to participate in and influence their local communities and to participate in the benefits available to them as members of society.
How much: Not specified
Contact: Level 11, 1 Spring Street,
Melbourne GPO Box 2392
Tel: 1300 366 356 (Grants information line)
www.multicultural.vic.gov.au
Victorian Volunteer Small Grants
Details: Grants are available for Victorian organisations to, among other things, attract new volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including newly arrived migrants.
How much: Up to $5000
Website: www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au
Corporate grants
Many corporations fund community groups as part of their strategic program and to demonstrate a social consciousness. They usually target community groups in their areas of operations.
Coca-Cola Foundation
Details: Coca-Cola Amatil has established a foundation in Australia as a vehicle for driving community support. The Coca-Cola Australia Foundation’s mission is “making a difference to Australia’s youth” and as such is committed to funding projects that help Australia’s young people realise their potential.
How much: $10,000 or less for community grants
www.ccamatil.com/coca-ColaFoundations.asp
Alcoa Foundation
Details: Under the banner, “Partnering Strong Communities”, Alcoa aims to work in cooperation with community organisations to build long-term partnerships leading to sustainable outcomes.
How much: Not specified
www.alcoa.com/australia/en/info_page/partnerships_faq.asp
Philanthropic trusts
These are Trust Funds established by wealthy individuals or corporations to fund projects in designated areas such as health, housing and education.
Reichstein Foundation
Details: Funds projects which effect structural change to redress the disadvantage experienced by particular communities
How much: Not specified
Tax status: Deductible gift recipient status preferred
Contact: 2nd Floor, 172 Flinders Street,
Melbourne, 3000
Tel: (03) 9650 4400
Email: info@reichstein.org.au
www.reichstein.org.au
Peter Brock foundation
Details: Provides assistance to community programs, “particularly those that emphasis a growing understanding of self-reliance and responsibility”.
How much: Not specified, but most previous grants have been between $1,000 and $6,000.
Contact: PO Box 253
Hurstbridge, Vic 3099
Tel: (03) 9718 2469
www.peterbrockfoundation.com.au
Rockefeller Foundation
Details: The foundation has a very broad focus, which includes “enabling individuals, institutions, and communities to build better lives and futures”. This includes “reweaving frayed social contacts”.
How much: Not specified
Due date: Ongoing
Contact: 420 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10018
Tel: +1 212 869 8500
www.rockfound.org
Useful websites
Our Community
Subscribers to www.ourcommunity.com.au receive access to an extensive database of Federal and State Government, philanthropic and corporate grants. The annual $55 fee for community groups also includes a monthly newsletter, while additional services, such as workshops and fundraising advice, are available with a higher fee.
Grants Search
Subscribers to www.grantsearch.com.au receive access to a data base of government, corporate and philanthropic grants. It is possible to subscribe for a week, month or a year, with the minimum of $33.
Grants Link
A Federal Government site, www.grantslink.gov.au helps you find funding available under a variety of grant programs for individuals, businesses and communities to help you to develop solutions to local and national problems, fund ideas and initiatives or provide assistance in times of hardship.
