Community grants support local senior groups
Published on 23 March 2026
The City of Whittlesea is supporting older residents to stay active and connected, with $328,534 allocated to 75 senior clubs through the 2025–2026 Senior Club Grants.
The funding forms part of more than $360,000 distributed through Council’s Community Grants Program during the second quarter of the 2025–2026 financial year, supporting local community groups, organisations and businesses.
Between 1 October and 31 December 2025, Council received 113 applications across seven grant programs, representing an 80 per cent increase in applications compared to the previous quarter.
The Senior Club Grants will help local seniors clubs deliver programs, activities and social opportunities that promote connection, wellbeing and active participation for the more than 7,000 older residents that are members of senior citizens groups across the municipality.
Funding during the quarter also included Year 2 payments for established community events, including Diwali celebrations, Whittlesea Cruise Night, Whittlesea Country Music Festival, the Whittlesea Show and preparations for Chinese New Year celebrations, supporting cultural celebration and community participation.
Round 1 of the Business-to-Business (B2B) Grant Program also opened during this period, with 13 applications supported to help local businesses procure products and services from approved local vendors and strengthen local supply chains.
Council is offering an upcoming Grant Writing Workshop for Creatives to help local artist prepare strong applications and navigate online funding forms. The workshop will take place on Thursday 26 March from 6pm to 8.30pm at the Riverside Community Activity Centre. Council’s Community Grants Team will be available at the sessions to answer questions and provide guidance on applying for funding. Tickets are $10. To find out more or register, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events
The City of Whittlesea Community Grants Program provides year-round funding to support local programs, events, projects and community initiatives. For more information or to apply, visit the Community grants page.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Lawrie Cox:
“We are proud to support our community through the Community Grants Program, which continues to fund a wide range of local programs, events and initiatives that bring people together.
“This year’s strong participation from our senior clubs is a fantastic result. These groups play an important role in helping older residents stay connected, active and engaged in community life.
“From supporting local senior groups to major community celebrations and local businesses, these grants help strengthen our community and ensure great initiatives continue to thrive across the City of Whittlesea.”