Volunteer Grants

Volunteer Grants are now closed for 2026

If you would like to be notified when the volunteer grants are open for 2027, please email alex.hawke.mp@aph.gov.au.

Grants of between $1,000 and up to a maximum of $5,000 are available. Grants are only available for items or services that directly benefit the work of the volunteer or the participation in volunteer run activities that benefit the development and wellbeing of children (under 18).

Community organisations will need to apply under one or more of the following categories to be eligible for funding in the 2025-26 Grants round:

Category 1

Organisations can apply for funding to purchase communication or insurance items that benefit any of their volunteers. Examples include mobile phones, computers, software packages, electronic audio and visual equipment, internet service fees and insurance premiums.

Category 2 – (a)

Organisations can support volunteers who are children or adults whose volunteering activities support children, as well as volunteers from cohorts such as First Nations people, newly arrived migrants, people with disability, unemployed people, veterans and Australian Defence Force members, and women experiencing or at risk of gender-based violence or isolation.

Category 2 – (b)

Funding can support volunteer-run activities focused on children’s development and wellbeing, as well as activities for the same cohorts. Two new eligible activities include supporting women experiencing gender-based discrimination or disadvantage and eliminating racial discrimination through activities that promote understanding and tolerance.

To be eligible organisations must be:

  • A not-for-profit organisation
  • Have a minimum of 40 per cent volunteers working for your organisation
  • Have an Australian Business Number (ABN)

What is the process?

  • Submit an Expression of Interest Application.
  • Expression of Interest Applications will be assessed by the Mitchell Volunteer Grants Committee.
  • All successful and unsuccessful expression of interest applicants will be notified by my office via email.
  • Successful applicants will receive an email directly from the Volunteer Grants portal inviting you to apply for funding.

Please note approval of your Expression of Interest Application does not guarantee your grant approval. Your full application will need to be assessed by the Department of Social Services.

For more information head to Volunteer Grants Program.

If you would like to be notified when the volunteer grants are open for 2027, please email alex.hawke.mp@aph.gov.au.