2025-26 Community Strengthening First Nations Grant

If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment and you wish to call a staff member, you can do so through the National Relay Service (NRS) and ask for 03 5272 5272 who can connect you with the grants team.

• TTY users can phone 13 36 77
• Speak & Listen (speech-to-speech) users can phone 1300 555 727
• SMS relay users can message 0423 677 767

Note: Area code must be included for each call.

For a full list of NRS call numbers, visit National Relay Service call numbers.

1. Read the grant guidelines.

2. Discuss your project/activity with a City Officer (please see contact details below)

3. Ensure that all required supporting documentation is uploaded where needed.

4. We recommend clicking 'Save Progress' every 10 minutes to make sure you do not lose any information.

5. Please read helpful tips or explanations throughout.

6. Stick to the word count in each section.

7. For information and access to other grant programs and application forms please go to the Grants and Funding page on the Geelong Australia website or contact a grants officer for clarification. 

Before starting your application, refer to the checklist below to gather any necessary documents you may need.  Not all items will be relevant to every application.

• Certificate of incorporation, if incorporated
• Australian Business Number (ABN)
• Statement by Supplier form (if you don’t have an ABN)
• Auspice agreement letter (if your organisation is not incorporated)
• Bank account details (account name, BSB and account number) which must match the applicant’s name and ABN details (if you have an ABN)
• Redacted bank statement (see bank details section for further information on requirements of a redacted bank statement)
• evidence of First Nations ownership or partnership in the project (for all applications)
• Communication and engagement plan (for applications requesting more than $5,000)
• Letters of support from project partners and/or stakeholders
• Copies of required permits or approvals
• Confirmation of venue booking 
• A budget showing all income, expense and how the grant funds will be used. 
• Quotes or cost estimates for grant related expenses  
  
  

You must discuss your project/activity idea prior to completing this form with a City Officer, by phone 5272 5560 or email communitygrants@geelongcity.vic.gov.au