Alpine Shire Council's 2025/26 Community Grants Program and 2025/26 Event Funding Program are now open for applications.
In short:
- Alpine Shire Council's 2025/26 Community Grants Program and 2025/26 Event Funding Program are now open for applications.
- Diverse groups and event organisers are encouraged to apply, with funding starting from as little as $100 to as big as $10,000.
- Applications close at 5pm on Monday, 16 July 2025.
- Apply now by visiting https://alpineshire.smartygrants.com.au/
Local community groups and event organisers are invited to turn their ideas into action through Council's annual funding opportunities – the 2025/26 Community Grants Program and the 2025/26 Event Funding Program.
Big ideas start small, with grants starting from as little as $100 to as big as $10,000.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said that these funding opportunities recognise the vital role of groups and organisations across Alpine Shire who bring people together and contribute to the social and economic fabric of the region.
"In the most recent round of the Community Grants Program, the Gundowring Hall and Reserve Committee of Management received funding to beautify their reserve with both the planting of new trees and the installation of a bespoke outdoor fire pit onto a newly concreted area," she said.
"The Bright U3A also received funding to purchase a bridge dealing machine, which will support their growing group of bridge players to continue the social and cognitive benefits of having an engaging routine activity.
"These projects are wonderful examples of how these funding opportunities can support groups and organisations to build connected communities through physical infrastructure, social activities, and vibrant experiences."
Community groups and event organisers with varying interests are encouraged to apply, including those focused on advocacy, the environment, and sustainability, sporting groups, Traditional Owners of Country, and young people.
The Event Funding Program also includes a specific, separate fund for events held in Dinner Plain.
Council's event funding is aligned with the Alpine Shire Events Strategy 2021. The Strategy identifies the needs and priorities of the community and provides a clear and realistic framework for Council to guide the future delivery of events.
Event organisers are strongly encouraged to review the Strategy prior to applying for funding.
Cr Nicholas emphasised the benefits of having a diverse range of applicants to grow or develop both new and existing experiences.
"With grants starting from as little as $100, I encourage groups and organisations to consider how some extra funding could help to put their ideas into action," she said.
"Big ideas start small and these funding opportunities are here to support people who want to make a difference in our communities."
Applicants for both the Community Grants Program and Event Funding Program must apply online via the SmartyGrants grant management system. This user-friendly application portal ensures that grants are managed in the best possible way for both applicants and Council staff.
The maximum funding amount for both funding opportunities is $10,000. Applications close at 5pm on Monday, 16 June 2025.
Community members and event organisers are encouraged to apply by visiting https://alpineshire.smartygrants.com.au/
Interested groups and organisations are encouraged to contact Council by calling (03) 5755 0555 or emailing info@alpineshire.vic.gov.au.