City of Parramatta’s Small Grants Fund in Australia
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The City of Parramatta’s Small Grants Fund offers vital support for voluntary and staffed not-for-profit incorporated organisations to strengthen their work and enhance community life.
This funding is designed to help with project development and implementation, capital purchases directly tied to specific initiatives, building internal capacity, and creating resources that enable groups to grow and deliver meaningful outcomes. Every grant must be linked to a clearly defined activity or project to ensure accountability and impact.
The objectives of the Small Grants Fund reflect the Council’s commitment to its Community Funding Priorities. Through this program, organisations are encouraged to improve access to community resources and services, particularly for individuals who face social exclusion, marginalisation, or isolation. The fund also fosters networks and partnerships between community groups, agencies, and the Council, while promoting active participation from residents in shaping and delivering projects.
A total of $70,000 is available each year through the Quarterly Grants program, with individual applications capped at $3,500.
Successful recipients must complete their projects within six months of receiving funding and submit acquittal reports within four weeks of completion. Failure to provide this documentation will affect eligibility for future rounds of funding. The program is focused on outcomes such as increasing community involvement, boosting social well-being, improving access to information, developing new skills, and strengthening links between individuals, groups, and agencies. It also aims to reduce disadvantage, alleviate financial hardship, and promote sustainability in line with the Council’s broader priorities.
The Small Grants Fund does not support conference attendance or related costs, academic course fees, interstate or international travel, or day-to-day operational expenses such as rent or office supplies. Instead, the emphasis is on targeted projects that make a tangible difference within the local community.
Eligibility requires applicants to be not-for-profit organisations that are either incorporated or have an auspice arrangement with an incorporated group. They must be based within the City of Parramatta or ensure that their project is delivered in the city, with exceptions only for projects that demonstrate a clear and direct connection to the area. Applicants must also be up to date with acquittal reports from any previous funding. Supporting documentation is required, with at least one quote for expenditure items over $500 and two quotes for items over $1,000.
Through this program, the City of Parramatta continues to invest in community-led initiatives that promote inclusion, skills development, and stronger local connections, creating lasting benefits for residents and neighbourhoods.
