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https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/%21drafts/community-grants-policy

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Have your say on Wyndham's Draft Community Grants Policy

Wyndham City is reviewing its Community Grants & Subsidies Policy to ensure it reflects community needs, good governance, and best practice.

The draft Policy sets out how Council supports local community groups, organisations, and initiatives through grant funding. It provides the framework for how decisions are made, who can apply, and the principles that guide the program.

We want to hear from community members, local groups, and organisations about whether the Draft Policy is clear, accessible, and works for you.

This consultation is open for 28 days. Feedback will help shape the final Policy before it goes to Council for endorsement.

Aims of the Policy

  • Provide clear, fair, and transparent processes.

  • Support projects that deliver lasting community benefit.

  • Strengthen governance and accountability.

  • Align funding with Council’s strategic priorities.

The Policy is the overarching framework that guides how Council provides grant funding to individuals, community groups, and organisations. It explains the purpose of the program, eligibility criteria, assessment processes, and accountability requirements.

  • A framework for how Council will manage and allocate community grants.
  • A guide for individuals, community groups, and organisations to understand how to apply and what is expected.
  • A way to ensure decisions are consistent, transparent, and aligned to Council’s priorities.
  • A step-by-step “how to apply” guide (this sits within separate Community Grants Program Guidelines).
  • A commitment of funding to specific groups or projects.
  • A replacement for other funding programs or subsidies that sit outside the Community Grants Program.

The current Policy was due for review to ensure it remains relevant, transparent, and responsive to community needs. We’re also aligning it with audit recommendations and best practice in local government.

All feedback will be considered before finalising the Policy. A summary of community input will be included when the Policy goes to Council for endorsement.

We’re making it easier for community groups to access funding and simpler for Council to deliver.

  • A clearer, standalone Policy – making it easier to understand and apply.
  • Simple and flexible Guidelines – all the practical “how-to” details are in separate guidelines that can evolve with community needs.
  • Faster decisions – grant approvals will move to officer delegations for quicker turnaround times.
  • One-off funding for fresh ideas – grants will support new initiatives that haven’t previously received funding for the same purpose, helping more projects get a fair go.
  • New funding opportunities – including a Special Provision stream for emerging needs and a Multi-Year category to back projects with long-term community impact.
  • Responsive funding rounds – timing and amounts will be reviewed each year to ensure the program continues to meet community priorities.

Bottom line: quicker approvals, fairer access, and stronger support for ideas that make a real difference in our community.