Community organisations in the City of Greater Bendigo, Australia, can now apply for funding through the Medium Community Grants Program 2026.
The City of Greater Bendigo is offering grants of up to AUD $10,000 to support local groups delivering projects that strengthen communities, improve local services, purchase essential equipment, organise community events, and build volunteer capacity.
The grants form part of the City’s ongoing commitment to helping community organisations achieve projects that align with the Council Plan 2025–2029 (Mir Wimbul) or an approved Local Community Plan.
If your organisation has a project that will benefit the local community, now is the time to apply.
What are the City of Greater Bendigo Medium Community Grants?
The Medium Community Grants are part of the City of Greater Bendigo Community Grants Program, which provides financial assistance to eligible community groups working to improve the lives of local residents.
The funding helps organisations undertake projects they may not otherwise be able to afford, including purchasing equipment, improving facilities, delivering training, organising community events, and expanding community services.
According to the City of Greater Bendigo, the grants play an important role in supporting grassroots organisations and strengthening communities across the municipality.
Programme Status: Currently Open
Grant Amount
Eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to AUD $10,000.
Funding may be used to support projects such as:
- Community events
- Equipment purchases
- Volunteer training
- Community facility improvements
- Organisational capacity building
- Community development initiatives
Who Can Apply?
The Medium Community Grants are intended for eligible community groups operating within the City of Greater Bendigo.
Applicants should ensure that their proposed project aligns with the objectives of:
- The City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2025–2029 (Mir Wimbul), or
- A recognised Local Community Plan.
Eligible Projects
Funding may support projects that:
- Strengthen local communities
- Improve community participation
- Enhance community facilities
- Purchase equipment for community use
- Deliver volunteer development and training
- Organise inclusive community events
- Improve access to community services
- Build organisational capacity
Projects should clearly demonstrate how they will benefit the local community.
Eligibility Discussion Required
Before submitting an application, all groups must discuss their project with one of the City’s Community Strengthening Officers.
Applicants can do this by:
- Calling 1300 002 642
- Emailing grants@bendigo.vic.gov.au
This discussion helps determine whether the proposed project is eligible before a formal application is submitted.
Information Sessions
The City is also offering free one-on-one information sessions for prospective applicants.
Sessions will be held at Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub and Bendigo Library on the following dates:
- Thursday, 6 August 2026
- Tuesday, 11 August 2026
- Wednesday, 19 August 2026
Each session lasts approximately 15 minutes.
Advance booking is required.
How to Apply
Interested organisations should follow these steps:
Step 1
Contact a Community Strengthening Officer to discuss your project.
Step 2
Confirm your project’s eligibility.
Step 3
Prepare your application and supporting information.
Step 4
Submit your application through the official Community Grants application process before the closing date.
Applicants are encouraged to review all funding guidelines before applying.
Application Deadline
Applications opened on:
Monday, 3 August 2026 (9:00 AM)
Applications close on:
Thursday, 27 August 2026 (4:00 PM)
Late applications may not be accepted.
Previous Grant Recipients
During the previous funding round, the City of Greater Bendigo awarded AUD $197,851 to 34 community organisations.
Some funded projects included:
- Community coffee van for Kalianna Special School
- Community hall heating and cooling upgrades
- Community radio station relocation
- Volunteer capacity-building projects
- Inclusive arts and drama programmes
- Community sports equipment
- Youth leadership programmes
- Food distribution vehicle replacement
- Community festivals and cultural events
- Environmental conservation initiatives
These examples demonstrate the wide range of community projects supported through the grants programme.
Official Website
Applicants should visit the official City of Greater Bendigo Community Grants webpage for application guidelines, eligibility requirements and information session bookings.
For enquiries:
Phone: 1300 002 642
Email: grants@bendigo.vic.gov.au
Applicants should always rely on the official website for the latest information before submitting an application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding is available?
Eligible community organisations can apply for grants of up to AUD $10,000.
Who can apply?
Community groups operating within the City of Greater Bendigo may be eligible, provided their projects meet the programme guidelines.
Is it compulsory to discuss my project before applying?
Yes. Applicants must speak with a Community Strengthening Officer before submitting an application.
What kinds of projects are funded?
Projects supporting community development, volunteer training, equipment purchases, events, and organisational capacity building may be eligible.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close at 4:00 PM on Thursday, 27 August 2026.
Final Thoughts
The City of Greater Bendigo Medium Community Grants 2026 provide valuable funding for local organisations working to strengthen their communities. Whether your organisation is planning a community event, purchasing equipment, improving facilities or supporting volunteers, the grants can help bring your project to life.
Suggested Featured Image Prompt
A diverse group of community volunteers working together to improve a local neighbourhood park, with people planting trees, painting community facilities and organising supplies. The setting reflects community development, teamwork and local government support. Photorealistic, bright natural lighting, high quality, 16:9 aspect ratio, no text, suitable for a community grants news article.
