Moorabool Shire Community Grants 2026

Published on 23 January 2026

Next round of community grants to open in March 2026

Local activities, projects and events delivered by community groups and not-for-profit organisations are encouraged to apply for the next round of Council’s community grants, opening 1 March.

The Community Grants Program provides over $270,000 annually to help local groups implement projects, deliver services and run events that strengthen community wellbeing and participation.

Previous successful recipients include:

Blackwood and Barry’s Reef Landcare Group ran a series of environmental workshops focused on conservation education and community skills development
Bacchus Marsh & Melton Community Theatre have completed several theatre equipment upgrades—including stage lighting, portable lighting, and sound systems—enhancing local access to arts and culture
Ballan Shire Historical Society Inc are constructing an outbuilding behind the Ballan Old Courthouse to be used as an archival storage area and a workshop for the Society's extensive heritage collection.

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor said Council received many applications in the 2025 rounds, and encouraged local groups and not-for-profit organisations to submit one in March this year.

“If this is your first time applying for a community grant, reach out to Council and attend the grant writing workshop or drop-in sessions to help you. We’re looking forward to seeing what the community wants to fund this year,” he said.

A free Community Grant Writing Workshop will be held on Thursday 24 February, 6–7pm via Microsoft Teams, covering eligibility, successful project examples, funding streams and assessment criteria.

Drop‑in support sessions will be available in March for applicants needing assistance with the application process, documentation, assessment criteria or navigating SmartyGrants:

2 March, 3–6pm — Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh
3 March, 3–6pm — Ballan Library, Ballan
5 March, 3–6pm — Gordon Public Hall, Gordon

Applications will open on Sunday 1 March and close on Tuesday 31 March. To register for the online workshop or drop-in sessions, visit our website at moorabool.vic.gov.au/communitygrants.