Expressions of interest are open for Round 9 of the Stronger Communities Programme!

The Stronger Communities Programme grants scheme set up by the Commonwealth Government is to support projects that provide social benefits for local communities.

Grants between $2,500 and $20,000 are available to eligible community groups and organisations in Wills for eligible community projects that encourage and support participation in local projects, improve local community participation and contribute to vibrant and viable communities.

If your organisation would like to be considered, please fill out and return the Expression of Interest Form attached to me at peter.khalil.mp@aph.gov.au, by 11:59pm Monday 17 Feb 2025.

Successful applicants will then be invited to submit a full application through an online portal during March 2025. 

The maximum cost of your project cannot exceed $50,000 and your project must be completed no later than 31 December 2025. For local governing bodies, total Commonwealth funding for the project cannot exceed 50 per cent of the total eligible project expenditure.

To be eligible for funding an applicant must:

• be invited to apply by your local MP 

• have an Australian Business Number (ABN) 

• and be one of the following entities: 

• an incorporated not-for-profit entity (the grant opportunity guidelines provide detail on how you must demonstrate your ‘not for profit’ status) 

• a local governing body as defined by the Local Government (Financial Assistance) Act 1995 

• a Commonwealth, state or territory government agency or entity that is a fire service, rural fire service, country fire authority, state emergency service or similar. 

• an incorporated trustee on behalf of a trust with responsibility for a community asset or property. You will be required to provide relevant trust documents. For further information on program eligibility refer to the grant opportunity guidelines.

For further information or assistance with submitting your EOI, please email me or call my office on 9350 5777. I look forward to receiving your EOI.