Applications are now open for Cardinia Shire Council's 2026-27 Wellbeing Support Grants program.
Council is inviting local community groups, not‑for‑profit organisations and volunteer-led initiatives to apply for the 2026–27 Wellbeing Support Grants to help fund projects that improve the health, wellbeing, resilience and social connection of Cardinia Shire residents.
As part of Council's 2026-27 Wellbeing Support Grants, eligible groups can apply for the following three categories:
- Seeding grant (up to $5,000)
- To support setting up new organisations, groups, clubs, projects, programs or services.
- Volunteer Support grant (up to $3,000)
- To grow and develop volunteering in Cardinia Shire, such as:
- establishing volunteering programs
- training and development of volunteers, where not mandated by regulation, nor within the scope of training that is provided by the organisation*
- promotion of volunteering opportunities.
- To grow and develop volunteering in Cardinia Shire, such as:
- Small change grant (up to $1,000)
- To help with a range of minor operational and equipment costs that cannot be met through other funding sources. Applications for community Christmas decorations will be considered.
These grants aim to empower local organisations to deliver programs that support community participation, build inclusion, and enhance the sustainability of community services.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Brett Owen is encouraging all eligible groups to apply for a grant this year if they have a project, program or initiative in mind.
"Our grants support non-for-profit groups to continue to thrive; establishing new community connections, forming new groups, and starting community-focussed projects and services."
In 2025, Council received a record number of applications, successfully awarding 54 programs, groups and initiatives with a grant. Successful grants included:
- Christmas decorations
- Sporting and craft supplies
- Kitchen and IT equipment
- First-aid
- Training and workshops
- Volunteer recruitment
- Setup costs for new groups
"We want to continue to make Cardinia Shire a great place to live, work and play, and community groups play a vital role in improving quality of life and establishing a sense of belonging and connection for our residents across the shire." Mayor Owen said.
Applications for the 2026-27 grant program are open from 27 January and will close on 10 April 2026.
