Community Support Grants & Sponsorship Program Now Open

Published on 04 August 2026

Community groups, sporting clubs and community event organisers across Livingstone Shire are invited to apply for funding, with applications now open for Round 1 of Council's newly branded Community Support Grants & Sponsorship program.

The streamlined program brings together Council's Community Projects Fund (formerly Community Grants) and Community Events Fund (formerly Event Sponsorship) under the new Community Support Grants & Sponsorship program, making it easier for eligible organisations to access funding to deliver projects, strengthen community organisations and bring events to life across the region.

The changes also create a clearer funding pathway, with commercial businesses and for-profit event organisers now applying through Council's separate Economic Event Sponsorship program. This ensures community organisations are no longer competing with commercial applicants for the same funding pool.

Livingstone Shire Mayor Adam Belot said Council was proud to continue investing in the volunteers and organisations that make the region a vibrant place to live.

"Our community groups, sporting clubs and event organisers are at the heart of what makes Livingstone Shire such a connected and welcoming community," Mayor Belot said.

"Whether it's upgrading local facilities, purchasing equipment or delivering events that bring people together, this funding helps turn great ideas into lasting community outcomes.

"By bringing these funding opportunities together under one program, we've made it easier for organisations to identify the support available and apply through a coordinated funding round."

Recreation and Culture Portfolio Co-Lead Councillor Lance Warcon said the funding had already delivered tangible benefits for organisations throughout the Shire.

"We continue to see first-hand how even modest funding can make a significant difference to volunteer-run organisations," Cr Warcon said.

"Recent projects have improved accessibility, upgraded community facilities and strengthened local clubs, while the Community Events Fund continues to support events that build community pride, encourage participation and deliver social and economic benefits across Livingstone Shire."

One organisation already benefiting from the program is the Capricorn Radio-Control Aviators Club, which received funding through the Community Projects Fund to install new custom-built workbench tables at its clubhouse.

Club President James York said the new tables had transformed the club's facilities.

"The new tables have had an immediate impact on the workings of the club," Mr York said.

“They are a fantastic addition to our clubhouse and will serve our members for many years to come. They will also enable our club to host community events whether it be flying competitions or social functions. They will be used well on almost a daily basis.

“They're functional, built to last and have significantly improved our facilities, providing adequate workspace at a comfortable height for the assembly and maintenance of our models.

"We're incredibly grateful to Livingstone Shire Council and Bendigo Community Bank for supporting our project through the Community Projects Fund."

Mayor Belot said it was rewarding to see completed projects already making a positive impact.

"Projects like this demonstrate exactly why Council continues to invest in our community organisations," he said.

"Volunteers dedicate countless hours to creating opportunities for others, and these grants help ensure they have the facilities, equipment and support they need to continue making a difference."

Applications are now open for:

• Community Projects Fund – proudly funded by Livingstone Shire Council and Bendigo Community Bank, providing grants of up to $5,000 for eligible community projects.
• Community Events Fund – proudly funded by Livingstone Shire Council, providing grants of up to $10,000 for eligible community and regional events.

Applications close Monday, 31 August 2026.

For eligibility criteria and application details, visit Council's Community Support Grants and Sponsorship page.