Local giving with powerful results
We exist to connect local generosity with genuine local need. Every grant application goes through the same careful, transparent process, so decisions are fair and funding reaches the organisations and projects that will make the greatest difference.
We keep the process clear and fair, to make sure funding goes where it matters most.
Every grant we give is focused on the local challenges that matter most: supporting families, children, housing stability and crisis support. That focus is what allows every dollar donated to create genuine, lasting change in the lives of locals.
Family resilience and youth wellbeing projects
Mental health workshops and support groups
Crisis accommodation and emergency support
Men’s health, fitness and social connection programs
Food relief and storage for local charities
Programs delivered outside Cardinia Shire
State or national fundraising campaigns
Personal or individual financial assistance
Applications are only open to organisations based in Cardinia Shire, or projects that will mainly benefit people within the Shire. Projects benefiting people elsewhere are not eligible.
Applicants must be registered with the ACNC or as an Association, or be a for-profit business delivering a qualifying charitable activity.
All grants must be consistent with our DGR1 obligations. Recipients must hold DGR1 status or be undertaking DGR1-eligible activities.
We don’t fund programs already well supported by other grants or government funding. Our role is to fill genuine gaps, not subsidise existing support.
Every grant must have a clear, agreed measure of impact, whether that’s the number of people reached or a specific outcome achieved.
Applying for a grant is straightforward, but every application goes through a careful, considered process. Here’s what happens from the moment you apply for a community grant.
We offer a number of grants for organisations providing community initiatives in Cardinia. Review our available grants to see which may align with your organisation.
Complete your application and provide any supporting documents before the round closes.
Your application is scored against clear criteria, alongside every other eligible submission.
Applicants are notified directly, and successful recipients announced publicly.
Once funded, you'll deliver your project and report on the outcomes achieved.
Take our Eligibility Quiz to see if you could qualify for a Cardinia Community Foundation grant.
Meet some of the local organisations we’ve proudly supported across Cardinia Shire.
Explore the real projects and organisations we’ve funded, and the outcomes they’ve created across Cardinia.
Registered charities, not-for-profits, or Associations based in Cardinia Shire can apply. For-profit businesses may also be eligible if they deliver a qualifying charitable activity.
No. However we only fund organisations that undertake the project in the Cardinia Shire.
No. Your organisation must either hold DGR1 status or be undertaking DGR1-eligible activities, in line with our own reporting obligations as a foundation.
We’re less likely to fund programs already well supported by other grants or government funding. We aim to fill genuine gaps, not duplicate existing support.
We generally prioritise projects that support groups or communities, rather than funding for individual families or people.
Every application is scored against a consistent, weighted framework, covering community need, alignment with our focus areas, and the likely impact of the project.
Every funding decision is made collectively by our board, based on the scoring framework, not by any single individual.
Grant rounds open periodically throughout the year. Check this page or subscribe for updates to know when the next round is open for applications.
We notify all applicants of the outcome. Unsuccessful applicants are welcome to apply again in a future round.
Yes, organisations can apply in multiple rounds, provided each application meets our eligibility criteria and focus areas at the time.
Grant amounts vary depending on the specific round and category. Check the individual grant listing for details on funding available.
