Yarra's Community Grants program provides funding for a wide range of projects and programs being delivered by leading not-for-profit, grassroots community organisations and individuals. For every dollar spent by Council, there is $4 of benefit for the community.
Yarra City Mayor Cr Stephen Jolly said the grants program is crucial in supporting the many organisations and individuals who are working to promote access and equity, deliver local benefit and enable participation in the Yarra community.
"From First Nations theatre and free haircuts for people experiencing hardship to mental health mentoring and activities to reduce food waste – this year's Community Grants recipients are doing incredible work for the community", Mayor Cr Jolly said.
"Our Community Grants program continues to grow more far-reaching each year. We received a total of 248 applications across the six streams: an increase on last year's grant round. I look forward to seeing all these unique and important projects come to life next year."
Applications are evaluated against several criteria, including an organisation's ability to deliver outcomes that align with Yarra's Council Plan and address the areas of greatest need in our community. Many of Yarra's grants fund local not‑for‑profit organisations that support some of our most marginalised residents—whether by reducing food insecurity, providing social connection for older people, assisting new migrants, or offering other vital community supports.
Some examples of this year's successful grant recipients include:
Somali Women's Group – funding to support Somali women and families in Fitzroy through skills-development classes to build healthy, inclusive, and connected communities.
Reground - funding for the Waste Champion Leadership Program to empowers passionate residents to lead waste management, driving local action and building resilient communities.
Open Table - funding for Open Pantry, a volunteer-run food security program that provides free weekly community lunches, a community pantry and fresh-food markets, building on community connection for Yarra residents.
ILBIJERRI Theatre Company – funding to support career pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth through an Ensemble Program that reconnects creative practice with cultural practice to build First Peoples engagement in the performing arts sector.
Bent Twig Alliance – funding to drive membership for a project that aims to enhance the visibility and inclusiveness of the Bent Twig Alliance by offering free social events, sustainable materials, community outreach activities, and promotional initiatives that connect older LGBTQIA+ people in safe and active spaces.
Second Chance Cycles – funding to provide a supportive learning space for local people on community corrections orders or day release from prison, those who want advice on how to maintain their bikes, and anyone who enjoys tinkering. Participants build practical skills, recycle discarded bicycles, and provide affordable reconditioned bicycles to the local Collingwood community.
