In short:
Wyndham City is reviewing its grants policy after $579,060 was awarded to local groups, with 21% going to organisations tied to councillors. Feedback closes 26 November.
Help Shape Wyndham's Grant Process
Wyndham City is inviting community feedback on its Draft Community Grants Policy 2026–2030, which sets the framework for how council supports local initiatives that strengthen and benefit the community.
The Community Grants Policy ensures Wyndham’s grants program remains relevant, transparent and responsive to community needs – helping deliver projects that enhance wellbeing, connection and inclusion across the city.
In the 2024–25 financial year, $579,060.33 was awarded to 17 not-for-profit and community organisations as part of the Large Community Grants Program. However, nearly 21% of the total funding went to groups where sitting councillors declared conflicts of interest due to personal involvement (read more). Council said the process was competitive, with 41 applicants, and determined above board following an external review.
The Draft Policy proposes four funding streams – Small Grants (including Community Pathway Scholarships), Medium Grants, Large Grants (including Multi-Year Funding and Events), and Special Provision Funding.
Wyndham City Mayor, Cr Mia Shaw, said the grants program empowers individuals, community groups and organisations to deliver a diverse range of initiatives that make a real difference.
“Our grants program plays a key role in strengthening our community and enhancing Wyndham’s liveability, health and wellbeing,” Cr Shaw said.
Cr Shaw said community feedback will help ensure the new policy continues to meet local needs and uphold best-practice principles of fairness and transparency.
“We want to know if the Draft Community Grants Policy 2026–2030 continues to be relevant, transparent and responsive to community needs. We encourage individuals, community groups and organisations to have their say,” Cr Shaw said.
Residents now have the chance to provide feedback on both the draft policy and how recent funding decisions have been handled. Submissions close 26 November at theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/community-grants-policy.
