Connected Communities Fund - Stage 1 - Expression of Interest
This is an Expression of Interest (EOI) process. Selected applicants will be invited to deliver a detailed presentation.
The Connected Communities Fund is intended for higher risk, higher cost proposals, which will involve a more detailed application and acquittal process. Applicants will need to demonstrate a high level of competency, capacity, and planning capability to deliver the stated proposal outcomes. The Connected Communities Fund is for new initiatives and projects. Applications must align with one of the themes endorsed by Council each financial year.
Council will endorse themes for the Connected Communities Fund each financial year. The following themes have been endorsed for Round 1 of 2026/27:
- Connected & Inclusive Communities
Description: Fund activities that strengthen social connection and belonging, support inclusion, accessibility and participation, build community pride and identity, support volunteerism and community leadership, create safe, welcoming community experiences, reduce isolation and improve wellbeing. This includes facility upgrades or improvements where these contribute to inclusion, participation, and community wellbeing.
Example initiatives: Neighbourhood initiatives, inclusion initiatives, youth engagement, seniors’ connection programs, multicultural activities, community-led activation projects, volunteer development, facility upgrades such as ramps, accessible toilets, kitchen improvements, lighting upgrades, roof restoration, air conditioning improvements, and development application fee reimbursement.
- Local Leadership & Community Capacity
Description: Fund activities that strengthen community organisations, build local capability and leadership, improve governance and sustainability of groups, support collaborative partnerships, increase community participation in local issues.
Example initiatives: Committee training, governance capability, community leadership programs, partnership projects, shared resource initiatives, mentoring and skills development.
- Sustainable & Well-Cared-For Places
Description: Fund activities that improve local environmental outcomes, support practical sustainability initiatives, reduce waste, enhance public amenity, encourage stewardship of natural places, improve resilience and preparedness.
Example initiatives: Revegetation, waste reduction initiatives, recycling/reuse projects, clean-up activities, resilience preparedness, habitat restoration.
- Community Trust, Participation & Transparency
Description: Fund activities that improve civic participation, increase understanding of local issues, support respectful dialogue, strengthen community voice, improve access to information and participation.
Example initiatives: Civic participation projects, deliberative engagement pilots, community education initiatives, accessibility and information inclusion projects.
