$150,000 FEDERAL FUNDING POOL OPENS FOR DAWSON COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Community groups across Dawson are being encouraged to put forward their ideas for projects that could strengthen local communities, with grants of up to $20,000 available through the Stronger Communities Programme.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is calling on local community organisations, not-for-profits and groups to think about the projects they have been wanting to deliver and put forward an Expression of Interest.

“Our communities are full of people with great ideas, but sometimes it is the funding that stands between a good idea and getting it off the ground,” Mr Willcox said.

“The Stronger Communities Programme is about backing those local ideas and helping community organisations deliver projects that will benefit the people they serve.

“That could mean new equipment, improvements to a community facility, creating a better shared space or a project that brings people together. “I want to see what Dawson’s community groups have been working towards and what they could achieve with a little extra support.”

The Stronger Communities Programme provides $150,000 for each federal electorate to support small capital and infrastructure projects that deliver social benefits to local communities. Grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 are available for eligible projects with total project cost of no more than $50,000.

Mr Willcox said local community organisations should not underestimate the difference a relatively modest investment could make.

“Local volunteers do an enormous amount with very little, and I know there are plenty of groups across Dawson with projects sitting on a wish list waiting for the opportunity to make them happen,” he said.

“This is a chance to move some of those projects from the wish list to the work list.

“I encourage community groups to start thinking about what would make a real difference to their members and their local community, and get their Expression of Interest in.”

Eligible organisations must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and meet the programme’s eligibility requirements. Eligible projects must be completed by 31 March 2028. For eligible applicants other than local governing bodies, grant funding can cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs. Local governing bodies can receive up to 50 per cent, requiring at least 50 per cent matched funding.

Expression of Interest Form: Round 10 - Stronger Communities Programme — Andrew Willcox

Expressions of Interest for the Stronger Communities Programme close at 5pm Sunday, 25 October 2026.

Community groups interested in applying should review the programme requirements and submit their Expression of Interest before the closing date.

ENDS

Contact: Amanda Wright | Media & Communications Adviser P | 07 4944 0662 M | 0455 456 705 E | Amanda.Wright@aph.gov.au