More than $524,000 in grants and funding support has been allocated to community groups, Neighbourhood Houses and not-for-profit organisations in the first quarter of the 2025–26 financial year through the City of Whittlesea Community Grants Program.
The grants round opened on September 8, 2025 and closed on September, 30, 2025, attracting a total of 13 applications across the small, medium and large grant categories.
Six grant applications were approved, including three small grants totalling $7,167, and three medium grants totalling $40,529.41.
In addition, the Council delivered ongoing financial support through established funding arrangements. This included annual payments to six Neighbourhood Houses who were each allocated $40,433.31, support for two Funding Agreement recipients; Whittlesea Cruise Nights and Mission Smile (for their Diwali and Whittlesea Colour Carnival events) who received $50,907.79 combined, and two Service Agreements which included a one-off payment of $60,000 to Energy Smart Homes for the Solar Savers Program and $123,207.29 to Whittlesea Community Connections.
These grants provide much-needed support for the ongoing delivery of community programs, social connection initiatives and local support across the municipality.
City of Whittlesea Mayor Councillor Lawrie Cox said that funding was an important part of how the council operated.
“The City of Whittlesea Community Grants Program has been running since 2023, and we are proud to be able to continue to support our community in delivering a huge range of events, programs and initiatives,” he said.
“Our Neighbourhood Houses spread throughout the City of Whittlesea do a wonderful job for the community on what is a small budget. We know that they are seeking more funds through State Government programs and a campaign is well underway.
“From large community events to local ongoing programs and supporting our business community thrive, we are investing in activities that keep our community connected, active and strong.
“Our City proudly supports our local businesses with the Business-to-Business program. We know it delivers in helping establish or grow businesses that employ locally and are located in our city.”
Local businesses are encouraged to apply for round one of the Business-to-Business Grant Program, now open until December 31, 2025. Round two will open on January 1, 2026.
This program offers up to $10,000 to help businesses grow their presence and resilience, enhance innovation or elevate their operations within the City of Whittlesea.
