3. Finding the grant

Any association seeking grant funding will need to find out what programs are available and which program will be best suited to the needs of the group. Grant programs are available from both State and Commonwealth agencies and there are a variety of search programs and guides that will assist associations finding the right grant.

3.1  Commonwealth Grants

A guide to grants available from Commonwealth Government agencies can be found through  GrantsLINK. GrantsLINK is a comprehensive website maintained by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government that draws together details Commonwealth Government grant programs. Grants can be searched by subject, agency, grant name or keyword and also offers information regarding finding a suitable grant and writing submissions.

3.2  State Grants

The Department of Local Government and the Department of Regional Development and Lands have compiled a grants directory for communities and local government in regional and metropolitan Western Australia.

The Directory provides a valuable tool for local governments and community members seeking additional funding for worthwhile activities, projects and events. The Department of Local Government and the Department of Regional Development and Lands update the publication on an annual basis.

The directory provides comprehensive information on who is eligible for assistance, how much funding is available and how to apply for funding for over 110 programs. The directory also includes links to the relevant websites, where available, to help users obtain the necessary information to make their application. Some websites also give users the ability to download grant application forms and submit completed forms online.

3.2.1  Department of Sport and Recreation

The department, through grants and scholarships, provides funding to organisations that facilitate sport and active recreation. There are a wide range of avenues to obtain funding including sport and community organisations, facilities and special funding for regional areas.

3.2.2 Department for Communities

The Community Participation unit at the Department for Communities provides information to volunteer organisations about grants and policy initiatives being undertaken by the WA State Government. The Volunteer section of the department’s website includes some useful links to organisations offering grants for community based groups.

3.2.3 Department of Culture and the Arts

The department distributes funding to organisations including small businesses, Local Government authorities and not-for-profit organisations through five Peer Assessment Panels in grant programs such as:

• Arts Development
• Contemporary Music
• Indigenous Arts
• Young People and the Arts
• Community Cultural and Arts Facilities Fund