Deadline Date: August 10, 2026
The 2026-27 First Nations Grants provide support for self-determined projects and initiatives that aim to increase health and social equity for Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, First Nations People, organisations and groups living in Greater Geelong.
The grant supports applications that deliver on the National Agreement on Closing the Gap socio-economic targets, deliver on the five pillars of the City’s Community Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-29, increase understanding, respect and celebration of First Nations perspectives and culture, increase knowledge and understanding of the impacts of colonisation on First Nations People and Traditional Owners through Truth Telling, and strengthen and enable First Nations decision making and increase opportunities for community participation and diverse engagement.
The total funding available for First Nations Grants is $100,000, with applicants able to request up to $25,000. Funding is competitive, and meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee support. The City may provide partial funding for a smaller or modified project and projects are typically funded only once.
Applicants must be based in the Greater Geelong municipality. Wadawurrung Traditional Owners living outside Geelong are also eligible to apply when the project is delivered in Geelong, recognising that Wadawurrung Country extends beyond Geelong’s municipal boundaries.
The grant can support projects delivered within the City of Greater Geelong, including arts projects and activities with demonstrated health and wellbeing outcomes, community development projects, community engagement activities, community events, cultural awareness and capability building, establishing culturally safe spaces, health promotion activities, NAIDOC celebrations and events, promoting Wadawurrung Culture, reconciliation events and activities, and training and development.
Eligible applicants include incorporated not-for-profit organisations, groups with an auspice, registered charitable organisations, businesses, individuals operating as sole traders with an active ABN, and Early Years organisations such as playgroups, kindergartens and childcare centres. Applicants must be able to demonstrate 50% First Nations ownership or partnership where required.
For more information, visit City of Greater Geelong.
