Yesterday, Mayor Edward Crossland, Yarra Councillors and staff joined our 2023 Annual Grants recipients for a morning tea to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable work they do in the community. 

In 2022-23, Yarra City Council provided a total of $2.4 million in grants to our local community. This year, we look forward to delivering $2.5 million across 350 projects run by local not-for-profits, grassroots community organisations as well as individuals. This is more than 60 additional projects compared with the 2021-22 Annual Grants program.  

From toy libraries and seniors support groups to environmental protection initiatives and vibrant music and arts festivals – each year Yarra’s grants support an incredible breadth of important projects that make the city such a wonderful place to live, work and visit.  

The grants program provides our diverse community with the necessary support and funding to deliver tailored programs, events and services that meet their unique needs. These projects all contribute to the strategic objectives outlined in the Council Plan. 

Among the funded projects were: 

• Friends of Merri Creek – a community group dedicated to protecting and restoring Merri Creek and its surrounding parklands.
• West Space – a leading independent visual arts organisation based in Collingwood Yards.
• St Mary's House of Welcome – a charity supporting those impacted by homelessness and rough sleeping.
• Oromo Community Women’s Group – a social support group for local women from the Oromo community.

Applications for our 2024 Annual Grants will open on Monday 10 June and close on Wednesday 31 July this year.

Visit our Community Grants page to learn more and see if your project might be eligible for funding.