WA community groups can apply for up to A$10,000 in sponsorship

Community organisations in Western Australia can now apply for sponsorship of up to A$10,000, excluding GST, for local projects and events. Applications opened on 23 October and close at 2pm AWST on 20 November 2026.

The Department of Communities programme supports activities that bring people together and meet its community priorities. The funding is for organisations delivering community activities.

Who can apply?

Applicants must operate in Western Australia. Eligible bodies include incorporated not-for-profit organisations, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and local councils. A community group can also apply through an eligible organisation that acts as its auspice, giving the group an established organisation through which to apply.

Individuals, sole traders and commercial businesses cannot apply. The 2026–27 guidelines also exclude organisations in the Indian Ocean Territories and those with outstanding obligations from earlier Department of Communities funding.

Migrant community groups should check these requirements before applying. The programme is not reserved for migrant organisations, and a cultural event must show a significant community benefit to qualify.

What could receive support?

Eligible proposals can include festivals, community discussions, forums and activities that support inclusion. Projects normally need to take place in Western Australia and finish within the financial year of the approved application.

The department particularly encourages work supporting carers, children in care, LGBTIQA+ people, people experiencing homelessness, people with disability, seniors, young people, and women experiencing family and domestic violence.

Funding is competitive. An application may receive less than the amount requested or no funding at all. Sponsorship involves agreed benefits for the department, including opportunities to promote its services. Successful organisations must sign an agreement and meet reporting and acknowledgement conditions.

How to apply

Use the official SmartyGrants application page, which is accepting submissions. Read the guidelines, prepare evidence of community need and explain the activity’s expected results, budget and delivery plan before completing the form.

The guidelines ask applicants to allow at least seven weeks for assessment. Late applications will not be accepted. Questions about the programme can be sent to sponsorships@communities.wa.gov.au.

Perth. Photo: Kgbo / Georgfotoart, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Cropped.