Application Deadline:
31 October 2025
About Organisation
The Cardinia Community Foundation, based in Victoria, Australia, is a philanthropic organisation dedicated to strengthening local communities within the Cardinia Shire. Over the past two decades, the Foundation has distributed nearly $1 million to support community-driven initiatives that enhance wellbeing, inclusion, and local participation. Its mission is to empower not-for-profit organisations and charities by providing financial assistance for projects that directly benefit residents, particularly those who may face barriers to active engagement in community life. By prioritising grassroots solutions, the Foundation ensures that funding reaches the people and projects that have the most immediate and meaningful impact. The Foundation places strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that disadvantaged or vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, migrants, and individuals experiencing financial or social challenges, are supported through innovative and practical community programs. With a vision to foster strong, resilient, and connected communities, the Cardinia Community Foundation continues to play an essential role in uplifting local initiatives and nurturing a culture of participation, inclusion, and wellbeing across the Shire.
About the Grant
The Active Cardinia Grant Program 2025 offers small-scale community grants to promote inclusion, participation, and wellbeing among residents of Cardinia Shire who may experience barriers to engagement. Through grants of up to AUD 1,000, the program supports locally-led initiatives that encourage active involvement in community and recreational activities, particularly for groups facing disadvantage. These may include children from low-income families, elderly individuals, migrants, people with disabilities, or those struggling with mental health challenges. Projects eligible for support could cover sports participation costs, such as registration fees or uniforms for children, youth programs that combine social and physical activities, or adult-focused initiatives like water safety training. The aim is to remove financial and social barriers, enabling broader participation in activities that foster belonging, wellbeing, and personal growth. By investing in small but impactful projects, the Foundation continues its tradition of strengthening Cardinia Shire through targeted community support. This grant round highlights the Foundation’s commitment to addressing inequalities and ensuring every resident has the opportunity to be actively involved in community life.
Who can Apply?
The Active Cardinia Grant Program 2025 is open to not-for-profit organisations, charities, and community groups operating within the Cardinia Shire. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusion, participation, and community wellbeing, with a focus on supporting individuals and groups who may face disadvantages. Organisations must be legally incorporated entities or have an auspice arrangement with a registered not-for-profit body to ensure accountability for the grant. Projects must directly benefit Cardinia Shire residents and align with the program’s goals of reducing barriers and encouraging active engagement. Priority will be given to initiatives that target disadvantaged populations, including but not limited to children and youth from low-income households, elderly residents, people with disabilities, migrants, and those experiencing mental health challenges. Proposals should clearly outline how the grant funds will be used, the intended impact on participants, and how the project promotes inclusion and connection within the community. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to design initiatives that foster long-term benefits and measurable outcomes, ensuring sustainability beyond the grant period.
How to Apply?
Applicants must download the grant application form, review all guidelines carefully, and complete their proposal detailing the project objectives, target group, and expected outcomes. The completed application should be submitted to the Foundation by the stated deadline. Support is available for applicants needing assistance in preparing proposals.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Active Cardinia Grant Program 2025 is 31 October 2025. All submissions must be received before midnight on this date to be considered.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
