Shortstack: grants and opportunities, February 4, 2026

South Coast Community Leadership program

Applications are open for the 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program.

The Program is a partnership between Bass Coast and South Gippsland shire councils and aims at growing leadership opportunities throughout both shires.

The program is a free six-session course designed to help community members build their leadership skills. Course content includes sessions on Reflective Community Leadership, Navigating Local Government, and Public Speaking and Storytelling for Impact.

Applications close Friday February 13.

To apply and for information visit: www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/leadership

Grants for dementia initiatives

Applications are open for a new round of Dementia Australia Community Engagement grants for up to 12 dementia-friendly community initiatives.

Community groups can apply for up to $10,000 for project ideas that support their local community to become dementia-friendly.

Priority will be given to projects:

• that directly support individuals with young onset dementia and/or younger carers.
• which meaningfully consult and collaborate with people impacted by dementia in the project design and delivery, bring together collaborative local partnerships and meet the needs of diverse communities.
• that work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse, and regional and remote communities.
  Applications close on February 16. Previously successful grant recipients of Dementia Australia's Community Engagement Program are not eligible for a 2025/26 grant.
  

Details: dementia.org.au/get-involved/dementia-friendly-communities/community-engagement-program-grants

Support for school camps, sports and excursions

Families can now apply for grants through the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) to help with the cost of school camps, sporting programs and excursions.

Eligible families can apply through their child's school, with funding paid directly to schools to support participation in the approved activities.

Families holding a valid means-tested concession card are welcome to apply, or those eligible under special categories, including temporary foster parents.

Application forms and guidance are available through your local school.

For further information, visit www.vic.gov.au/camps-sports-and-excursions-fund