Council’s Grants Policy reinforces commitment to local community

Published on 19 February 2026

The City of Whittlesea has adopted a new Grants Policy endorsed at the Council Meeting on Tuesday 17 February.

The City of Whittlesea’s Grants Policy demonstrates Council’s continued commitment to supporting local individuals, community groups, not-for-profit organisations, and businesses. Since July 2025, Council has provided more than $1 million in grants and funding to support programs, services, and events that respond to local needs.

The new policy clearly defines the types of grants available, eligibility requirements, and the decision-making process, ensuring fairness and accountability. It supports year-round funding as well as targeted grants that address specific or emerging community needs. Annual grants help community-based organisations deliver specialised services, while four-year funding agreements are available to organisations with a strong history of providing essential services or major community-driven festivals and events.

The policy also sets out the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved and includes procedures for identifying and managing conflicts of interest. An evaluation framework ensures grants are distributed fairly and used for their intended purpose.

Through the Grants Policy, Council provides equal access to support for residents of all ages, new and long-term residents, and both new and established organisations and businesses. This policy enables the City of Whittlesea to celebrate its diversity while supporting initiatives that strengthen community connection, wellbeing, and opportunity.

To view the policy and grants available, visit the Community grants page.

Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor Councillor, Lawrie Cox:

“The City of Whittlesea’s Grants Policy reflects our strong commitment to supporting our diverse and growing community. We’re helping individuals, community groups, organisations and businesses deliver programs, services and events that make a real difference to our community”