Connected Communities - Round 1 - 2025/26
The Connected Communities Fund is intended for higher risk, higher cost proposals, which will involve a more detailed application and acquittal process. Applicants will need to demonstrate a high level of competency, capacity, and planning capability to deliver the stated proposal outcomes. The Connected Communities Fund is for new initiatives and projects. Applications must align with one of the themes endorsed by Council each financial year.
For a project or program to be eligible it must:
• Align to ONE of the fund themes
• Meet the key selection criteria for the fund.
• There is no specified maximum amount that can be applied for under the Connected Communities Fund.
• A 30% co-contribution by the applicant towards the event must be demonstrated.
What are the themes?
Council will endorse themes for the Connected Communities Fund each financial year. The following themes have been endorsed for 2025/26:
Capacity - Aims to foster community led collaboration and partnerships, initiatives, programs and projects that help communities develop their own solutions and build the skills, knowledge, and capacity of organisation members;
Place - Aims to foster the development of accessible, fulfilling, and engaging places and spaces for community through initiatives, projects and activities that activate Council controlled or community owned and operated facilities, parks, and open spaces;
Connect - Aims to foster community led initiatives and projects that strengthen relationships, community connection, civic participation and understanding across the community;
Wellbeing - Aims to foster healthy, safe, and supported communities through the delivery of community led partnerships, programs, activities, and resources that promote healthy lifestyles, positive wellbeing, and safe communities; and
Planning - Aims to foster and support the development of programs, plans and strategies that strengthen the community’s ability to deliver well planned and sustainable organisations, facilities, and activities across the region.