Round 2 of Community Partnership Grants Now Open
Published on 15 January 2026
Southern Grampians Shire Council is inviting local community groups to bring their ideas to life, with Round Two of the Community Partnership Grants program now officially open.
Applications opened at 9:00am on Monday 12 January 2026 and will close at 4:00pm on Monday 16 February 2026.
The Community Partnership Grants program supports new or expanding initiatives, projects and events that strengthen community connection and contribute to vibrant, inclusive and resilient communities across the Shire.
Grants are available for a wide range of activities, including arts and culture, community strengthening, heritage projects and community infrastructure.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the program invests in the people and places of the Southern Grampians.
“This program puts funding directly into the hands of the people who are volunteering their time, energy and ideas to make our towns and communities stronger.”
Cr Heslin said Round One of the 2025/26 program delivered outstanding outcomes across the Shire.
“In the last round, we were delighted to support a wide range of worthwhile projects from the Byaduk Spring Show, which received $2,412 to help deliver a successful community event, through to the Balmoral RSL, which secured $2,500 for a new defibrillator to improve community safety,” he said.
“We also supported important facility upgrades at the Glenthompson War Memorial Hall, and larger-scale events such as the Cavendish Redgum Festival, which received $15,000 to support the event.
“Every application is carefully assessed by our Grants team to ensure the maximum benefit to our community,” Cr Heslin said.
Eligible community groups can apply for up to $15,000 per financial year, with funding available for initiatives, events and projects that deliver clear benefits to the Southern Grampians community.
“If your group has an idea, whether it’s something new or an expansion of an existing project; we strongly encourage you to apply,” Cr Heslin concluded.
To support applicants, Council’s Community Development Team will again host drop-in information sessions at the Greater Hamilton Library, as well as a roadshow across townships to ensure all groups have access to advice and assistance.
Community Drop-In Sessions will occur at the Hamilton Library between 10:00am – 2:00pm each Friday from 16 January to 13 February.
The Community Partnership Grants Roadshow will run as follows:
Tuesday 3 February 2026
• Coleraine – 10:00am–12;00pm, The Catching Pen
• Balmoral – 1:00pm–3:00pm, Balmoral Hall
Wednesday 4 February 2026
• Cavendish – 10;00am–12:00pm, Cavendish Hall
• Dunkeld – 1:00pm–3:00pm, Dunkeld
Thursday 5 February 2026
• Penshurst – 10:00am–12:00pm, Penshurst Hall
• Glenthompson – 1:00pm–3:00pm, Glenthompson Hall
Friday 6 February 2026
• Tarrington – 10:00am–11:00am, Tarrington Recreation Reserve
• Byaduk – 12:00pm–1:00pm, Byaduk Hall
• Branxholme – 2:00pm–3:00pm, Branxholme Hall
Community Development Officers will be available to answer questions, simplify the application process and provide practical advice to help applicants put forward strong proposals.
If you would like to view a list of previously funded projects, please see the Council website.
For more information or to apply, visit Council’s website or attend a drop-in session to speak directly with staff.
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