I’m pleased to announce Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the 2025–26 Volunteer Grants round are officially open.
The Volunteer Grants program offers between $1,000 and $5,000 to eligible not-for-profit community organisations to support and strengthen the incredible work of their volunteers.
Eligible organisations are encouraged to submit an EOI to my office by Friday 3 April 2026. EOIs will be considered by a Community Consultation Committee, with shortlisted organisations invited to submit a full application for funding.
Steps to Apply
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Review the grant guidelines and discuss your organisation’s needs with your volunteers.
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Complete the form below to submit your EOI by 5:00 PM Friday 3 April 2026.
Important Dates
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After 3 April: The Community Consultation Committee meets to determine which projects progress to the next stage.
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18 May 2026: Successful organisations invited by the Department to submit a full application.
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29 May 2026: Applications close.
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October 2026: Grant agreements finalised and payments issued.
Changes to Eligibility Criteria
In the 2025-26 round, Category 2 eligibility has been expanded to include projects supporting:
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Young volunteers
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First Nations people
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Newly arrived migrants
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People with disability
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Unemployed people volunteering to build their employment capacity
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Veterans and Australian Defence Force members
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Women experiencing or at risk of gender-based violence or isolation
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Women experiencing gender-based discrimination or disadvantage in specified areas
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Initiatives focused on eliminating racial discrimination and promoting understanding, tolerance and friendship among racial or ethnic groups
