More than $1.8 million in community grants awarded in 2025-2026
Published on 21 October 2026
The City of Whittlesea’s Community Grants Program continued to provide support to community groups, businesses, sporting groups, individuals and emergency services throughout 2025-2026.
More than $1.8 million in grants was allocated to 198 applicants across the financial year, ensuring that community-led projects, initiatives and events could continue to be delivered.
The 2025-2026 Community Grants summary was presented at the Council Meeting on 20 October 2026. The outcome of the latest round of funding was also detailed, showing that in the final quarter, 27 applicants were approved for a total of $173,396 in grants, including 11 applicants as part of the Business to Business Grants Program.
Now into its third year, the Community Grants Program is continuing to support and strengthen community participation, inclusion and wellbeing through a range of funding.
Small, medium and large grants are provided to support events and programs, while individual grants support artists, sportspeople, environmental champions and emerging leaders to develop their skills, increase participation and contribute to the community.
Funding is also provided to assist community-based emergency services, seniors clubs and Neighbourhood Houses, while funding and service agreements support large community events such as Diwali, Chinese New Year, and the Whittlesea Show, and organisations such as Hume Whittlesea Living and Learning Employment Network and Whittlesea Community Connections.
The Community Grants Program offers grants throughout the year. For more information or to apply, visit the Community Grants page.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox:
“We are proud to be able to support so many community groups and organisations through our Community Grants Program.
“By supporting community-led programs and events, we are investing in activities that keep our community connected, thriving and active.
Quotes attributable to Sunil Goel, President of Mission Smile Inc:
“The City of Whittlesea’s grants program has played a vital role in bringing Northern Diwali to life.
“Their support helps ensure the festival remains free and accessible to thousands of attendees each year. This funding allows the organisers to create a safe, inclusive, and high-quality celebration that reflects and embraces the diversity of the Whittlesea community.”
Upcoming events
Proudly supported by the City of Whittlesea Community Grants Program.
Northern Diwali
Enjoy a free day of entertainment, including live music, food stalls, Bollywood dance workshops, fireworks and more.
When: Saturday 31 October, 12pm-9pm
Where: Terrace lawns, Civic Centre, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang
Whittlesea Show
Held annually on the first full weekend in November, the show has something for everyone, including show jumping and wood chopping, to market stalls, attractions, live entertainment and much more.
When: Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November, 9am-5pm
Where: Whittlesea Showgrounds, 30 Yea Road, Whittlesea