Volunteer Grants Now Open!

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open for the 2025–26 round of the Australian Government’s Volunteer Grants Program.

Volunteers are the backbone of so many of our community organisations across Cooper. These grants provide practical support to strengthen the incredible work they do.

Funding Available

• Grants between $1,000 and $5,000

• A total of $66,665 is available across Cooper

• Open to not-for-profit organisations with a workforce made up of at least 40% volunteers

Please note: there are changes to this year’s program. We encourage all applicants to read the information below carefully, and also the grant opportunity guidelines, located here.

What Can the Grant Be Used For?

Funding can support:

• Small equipment for volunteers

• Volunteer transport reimbursements

• Volunteer training costs

• Promotional materials to increase awareness of volunteering opportunities

• Communication or insurance items that benefit volunteers

Grant Categories

There are three funding categories:

Category 1

For communication or insurance items that benefit volunteers.

Category 2A

For items that primarily support volunteers working with specific community cohorts, including:

• Children

• First Nations people

• Newly arrived migrants

• People with disability

• Unemployed people

• Veterans and Australian Defence Force members

• Women experiencing or at risk of gender-based violence or isolation

Category 2B

For volunteer-run activities supporting:

• Children

• First Nations people

• Newly arrived migrants

• People with disability

• Unemployed people

• Veterans and ADF members

• Women experiencing or at risk of gender-based violence or isolation

• Women experiencing gender-based discrimination

• Initiatives that eliminate racial discrimination and promote understanding, tolerance and friendship between racial or ethnic groups

How to Apply

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) (found below).

2. EOIs will be assessed by a local committee.

3. Successful organisations will then be invited to submit a formal application to the Department of Social Services (DSS).

Eligibility Requirements

Organisations must:

• Be a not-for-profit organisation

• Have at least 40% volunteers

• Hold an ABN, or provide a completed Statement by Supplier form if not quoting an ABN (see the Australian Tax Office website for details)
  
  
  

Important Timing Information

Under Department of Social Services timeframes, funding for successful applicants is not expected to be available until October 2026.

This means any items or activities outlined in your EOI must be planned for purchase or delivery after October 2026.

Please ensure your application reflects this timeline.

Please note submissions of expressions of interest will close at 5.00pm on Monday, 23rd March.

If you have any questions or would like assistance in expressing your interest, please contact my office on (03) 9416 8690 or at [email protected]