Council grants to Help Bring Community Ideas to Life
Published on 01 June 2026
Southern Grampians Shire Council is inviting community groups and residents to turn their ideas into reality, with a series of hands-on information sessions planned across the Shire to coincide with the next round of Community Partnership Grants.
Kicking off in late June, Council’s grants team will visit towns throughout the region, offering practical support, advice and one-on-one guidance to help applicants feel confident putting forward their projects.
Round One of the 2026/2027 Community Partnership Grants program opens on Monday 15 June 2026 and closes on Monday 20 July 2026, providing an opportunity for local groups and individuals to access funding for initiatives that strengthen and enrich the community.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said Council is eager to support both returning applicants and particularly those considering a first-time application.
“Every year we see ideas flood in directly from the community and really shine a light on what our residents want and need,” said Cr Heslin.
“Amazing projects of all shapes and sizes have received funding in the past. From huge undertakings requiring financial support to the small quality-of-life improvements that make such a big difference to smaller groups.”
Community Partnership Grants offer funding of up to $15,000 per financial year for eligible projects, events and initiatives. Categories include Community Infrastructure, Arts and Cultural Development, Community Strengthening, Tourism and Events, Environmental Sustainability and Heritage.
Cr Heslin strongly encouraged anyone considering putting in an application who may be wary of the process to reach out to our grants team.
“These sessions are all about making the process easier and more accessible. Whether you’ve applied before or you’re starting with a brand-new idea, our team is here to help you every step of the way.”
“We know applying for funding can feel daunting, particularly if you’re doing it on behalf of a group. That’s exactly why we’re heading out into the community, to sit down, have a chat, and work through your ideas together.”
Residents are encouraged to attend a session, ask questions, and explore their ideas in a relaxed and supportive environment. For those unable to attend, one-on-one meetings with Council’s grants officers can also be arranged.
Information Session Schedule:
Community Drop-in Sessions – Greater Hamilton Library (10:00am – 2:00pm)
- Friday 19 June
- Friday 26 June
- Friday 3 July
- Friday 10 July
- Friday 17 July
Outer Townships
Tuesday 30 June 2026
10:00am – 12:00pm The Catching Pen, Coleraine
1:00pm – 3:00pm Balmoral Hall, Balmoral
Wednesday 1 July 2026
10:00am – 12:00pm Cavendish Hall, Cavendish
1:00pm – 3:00pm Dunkeld Visitor Information Centre, Dunkeld
Thursday 2 July 2026
10:00am – 12:00pm Penshurst Hall, Penshurst
1:00pm – 3:00pm Glenthompson Hall, Glenthompson
Friday 3 July 2026
10:00am – 11:00am Tarrington Rec Reserve, Tarrington
12:00pm – 1:00pm Byaduk Rec Reserve, Byaduk
2:00pm – 3:00pm Branxholme Hall, Branxholme
Eligibility criteria and information on how to apply, including the full guidelines and application form (once open) are available on Council’s grants page or by contacting Customer Service on 5573 0444.
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