2026/2027 Community Capital Works Grants

The CCWG program is a crucial resource for local community groups seeking funding to improve community facilities.

Council undertook a thorough review of the Community Capital Works Grants Policy and sought community feedback on the proposed policy changes from May to June 2025. Following community consultation, the updated Community Capital Works Grants Policy was endorsed by Council on 18 August.

The 2026/2027 Community Capital Works Grants (CCWG) program will be the first round of grants to follow the updated policy requirements.

Council made significant changes to the Community Capital Works Grant Policy to simplify the application process and enhance the customer experience when applying for a grant. Updated policy requirements include:

• Fewer categories
• The policy has reduced the number of categories from three to two. The category for council-managed projects has been removed. The major equipment category now allows for more necessary equipment to keep community facilities running.
• Funding details
• For projects costing less than $5,000, applicants won’t need to contribute any funds.
• For projects costing more than $5,000, applicants will need to provide 50% of the funding across all categories.
• Application changes
• The former Stage 1 "Expression of Interest" process is now referred to as a "Project Proposal." Applicants can submit their proposals at any time during the application period. All applications must be submitted at least one month before the application deadline.
• Reports on project outcomes
• Applicants will need to provide more detailed proof that their projects achieved the intended results.

Council encourages community groups and committees to take advantage of these funding opportunities to improve community facilities, strengthen local networks, and support community well-being. 

Project proposal submissions close on Tuesday, 27 January 2026. Successful stage 1 proposal applicants will be invited to submit a stage 2 Detailed Grant Application, providing more detailed information about the project proposal ideas. An invitation to submit a detailed grant application does not guarantee funding.

To help the community understand the updated policy requirements, Council is hosting three information sessions for applicants to learn more about the application process and updated policy and to discuss any project proposal ideas.

Information sessions will be held on:

• Monday, 15 September - online session at 7pm.
• Wednesday, 24 September - in-person session at the Civic Centre, Council Chambers, 20 Siding Avenue, Officer at 6:30pm.
• Tuesday, 14 October - online session at 7pm.

Community members can register for the session that best suits them. Please note that if you register for an online information session, a link will be sent to you via email.

For more information on the updated Community Capital Works Grants Policy, to submit a project proposal for the 2026/2027 grants, or to register for an information session, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ccwg