Bulgana Green Power Hub Community Benefit Fund

Through the Bulgana Green Power Hub (BGPH), Illuma Energy invests $120,000 each year into community projects and initiatives across the Northern Grampians region. This funding helps local groups and organisations bring ideas to life, strengthen communities and create lasting local benefits. Applications are independently assessed and administered by Northern Grampians Shire Council through an open and transparent grants process.

Funding Snapshot

The Community Benefit Fund is now open for applications from 1 October to 16 November, 2026.

Funding is available through two streams:

  • Small Grants – up to $5,000
  • Large Grants – up to $20,000 (large grant applications require dollar-for-dollar matched funding)

Take advantage of this opportunity to access funding and bring projects to life that make a positive difference in our community.

Want to learn more?

Learn everything you need to know, from eligibility and application questions to how the assessment process works, via the topics listed below.

If you would like information about the funding please don't hesitate to get in touch with us by calling (03) 5358 0512 or by emailing community@ngshire.vic.gov.au.

 
Small Grants

One-off grants of up to $5,000 are available to support community projects. These grants do not require a matching dollar-for-dollar contribution.

Large Grants
Grants of up to $20,000 are available, depending on the project and the funding available at the time. These grants do require matching dollar-for-dollar funding. This contribution can come from the applying group/organisation or from another confirmed grant.

It’s encouraged that applicants will contribute a portion of the matching funds themselves. These grants are designed to help community groups leverage funding from government or other non-government programs, as many external grants require co-funding.

Please note: in-kind contributions are not accepted as part of the matching funds.

Also, only one application per organisation per year will be accepted.

 

Applications for the BGPH Community Benefit Fund must be submitted through our online application form powered by SmartyGrants. The application form is open from 1 October 2026.

We encourage you to review the information below so you can start preparing your application and gather any supporting documents you'll need.

What you will need to include in your application

1. Check Your Group or Organisation Is Eligible

Before you start, make sure your group or organisation meets the eligibility requirements by reviewing the eligibility checklist.

You will also need to provide proof of insurance, including public liability insurance. If you don't currently hold insurance, you will need to confirm that it will be in place before your project begins.

2. Tell Us About Your Organisation

Provide your organisation's contact details, along with the name and details of the person completing the application.
If someone else will be managing or leading the project, please include their details as well.

You'll also need to provide:

  • A current ABN or Incorporated Association Number

  • Auspice organisation details (if applicable)

  • A letter of support from your auspice organisation (if your project is being auspiced)

3. Tell Us About Your Project or Initiative

We'll ask for some basic information about your project, including:

  • Project title

  • Project location

  • Proposed start date

  • Funding amount requested

You'll also need to provide:

  • A clear description of your project or initiative

  • An explanation of how your project aligns with the Fund's Priority Areas

4. Project Planning

Help us understand your project by telling us:

  • Why the project is needed

  • How your community supports the project (required for applications over $5,000)

  • Who will benefit and approximately how many people you expect to reach

  • The key activities you'll undertake to deliver the project

5. Project Outcomes

Tell us about the difference your project will make:

  • What positive outcomes do you expect for participants or the community?

  • How will you measure success and know whether these outcomes have been achieved?

6. Budget

Provide a detailed budget outlining all project income and expenses.

Please note:

  • Applications over $5,000 must demonstrate dollar-for-dollar matching funding

  • Quotes are required for any individual items costing more than $500

7. Your Group's Capacity to Deliver

We would like to understand why your organisation is well placed to deliver the project successfully.
Tell us about:

  • Your group's experience, skills and strengths

  • Any partnerships or support that will help deliver the project

  • Your financial capacity to manage the project

If you're applying for a large grant, you'll also need to provide a financial statement demonstrating that you have, or will have, the required matching funds.

Tip: Starting your application early gives you plenty of time to gather supporting documents, obtain quotes and secure any required letters of support before applications open on 1 October.If you’re applying for a large grant, include a financial statement to show you have (or will have) the required matching funds. 

Funding Priority Areas

Illuma Energy is committed to building stronger communities through local investment across six key focus areas.

Energy Efficiency & Environment: Think solar panels, battery storage, or innovative ideas that protect our local environment and support biodiversity conservation.

Health & Wellbeing: Projects that help people thrive. Whether it's about supporting good mental health, physical fitness and activity, or initiatives that boost overall community wellbeing.

First Nations Initiatives: Projects led by or in partnership with First Nations communities that celebrate culture, language, and heritage.

Disaster Relief & Emergency Services: Ideas that strengthen community resilience. Ideas could range from recovery support for those impacted by natural disasters or improved equipment and training for our local emergency services.

Arts, Culture & Events: Celebrate creativity and community through music, art, festivals, and cultural events that connect people and celebrate the region.

Education & Training: Skill-building programs addressing local skill development and funding educational programs, particularly initiatives encouraging Women & Girls in STEM fields

What can be funded 

Whether you're planning a local event, purchasing equipment, improving a community space, or delivering a new program, we would love to hear about your idea. The examples below provide a guide to the types of projects that may be funded.

The following examples are not exhaustive, and innovative ideas that support a stronger, more connected and resilient community are welcome.

Activities, events, programs and services

Bring people together and strengthen your community through:

  • Community festivals and celebrations
  • Workshops and training opportunities
  • Youth engagement programs
  • Health and wellbeing activities
  • Outreach and support services
  • Cultural and community events

Purchasing or hiring equipment and materials

Access the tools and resources needed to make your project a success, such as:

  • Sporting equipment
  • Musical instruments
  • IT and digital equipment
  • Gardening supplies
  • Safety equipment
  • Learning and educational materials

Small-scale community infrastructure projects

Improve local spaces and facilities for the benefit of the community, including:

  • Community garden projects
  • Seating and gathering areas
  • Public art installations
  • Community noticeboards
  • Upgrades to local facilities
  • Renewable energy and solar initiatives

Building skills and community capacity

Invest in the people who help communities thrive through:

  • Volunteer training
  • Leadership development programs
  • Governance and committee support
  • Grant writing workshops
  • Strategic planning and organisational development

Developing shared community resources

Create resources that can be accessed and enjoyed by the broader community, such as:

  • Tool libraries
  • Community pantries
  • Digital technology hubs
  • Local history and heritage displays
  • Educational resource kits for schools and community groups

What the BGPH Community Fund Doesn’t Support

To keep the fund focused and fair, there are a few things we can’t fund:

  • Events or activities that may harm the environment

  • Ongoing operating costs, salaries, or routine maintenance

  • Requests for food, alcohol, or event catering

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for a BGPH Community Fund grant, your group or organisation must:

  • Be based in the Northern Grampians Shire or in the area surrounding the Bulgana Green Power Hub.

  • Be a not-for-profit group or organisation

  • Have the approval of your full committee or board to apply.

  • Be financially viable and capable of managing the project.

  • Be able to match the funding dollar-for-dollar if applying for more than $5,000.

  • Not be a delegated committee of Council.

To ensure funding is directed to projects that align with the purpose of the Bulgana Green Power Hub Community Fund, some applications cannot be considered.

Your application will be ineligible if:

  • Your group or organisation is located outside the Northern Grampians Shire.

  • You are applying as an individual rather than on behalf of an eligible group or organisation.

  • Your organisation is a political or military organisation.

  • Your project or program will be delivered outside the Northern Grampians Shire, including international aid or overseas initiatives.

  • The application is for religious or sectarian activities that are primarily faith-based and do not provide a broader community benefit.

  • Your project has already commenced before funding approval is received.

  • The project is eligible for funding through another readily available grant program.

  • Your application is submitted after the closing date.

2026 Assessment Timeline

  • Applications will be assessed during late November and early December.

  • Applicants will be notified mid December.

Who Assesses the Applications?

An independent community advisory panel will review all applications and decide which projects/initiatves receive funding. The panel includes:

  • 3 community members from the Northern Grampians Shire

  • 1 representative from local government

  • 1 representative from BGPH

How the Application Will Be Scored

Each application is scored out of 100 based on the following criteria:

Assessment Area

How the panel will assess

Weight

Project Summary

Is the project clearly described. Is there a clear need and purpose. Does the project strongly align with the funds priority areas.

30%

Project planning

Is there a demonstrated need for the project? Is there evidence of community support, particularly for applications over $5,000? Are the intended beneficiaries clearly identified and is the expected reach realistic? Is there a clear and achievable plan for delivering the project?

20%

Project outcomes

Does the project demonstrate clear and meaningful benefits for the community? Are the proposed outcomes realistic and achievable? Does the applicant explain how it will measure or demonstrate whether the project has been successful?

20%

Budget

Is the budget clear, realistic and supported by appropriate quotes? Does the project provide good value for the funding requested? Where required, has dollar-for-dollar matching funding been demonstrated? Are the proposed expenses directly related to the project?

20%

Group’s ability to deliver project

Does the organisation have the skills, experience, people and resources needed to successfully deliver the project? Is there evidence of sound financial and organisational management? For larger grants, is there evidence that matching funds are available or can be secured?

10%

 

Make sure each section of your application is as clear and complete as possible to give your project the best chance of success.

Conditions of Funding 

If your application is successful, please be aware of the following requirements:

  • Notify NGSC of any changes:
    If your project changes significantly or won’t go ahead, you must contact the Northern Grampians Shire Council immediately so any unused funds can be returned.

  • Receipts required:
    You’ll need to provide proof of expenses (e.g. receipts) for all project spending.

  • No ongoing funding commitment:
    Receiving a grant does not guarantee ongoing or future funding from the Bulgana Green Power Hub Community Fund.

  • Changes to your project:
    Any changes to your original submission must be made in writing and approved by the BGPH Community Fund Coordinator before proceeding.

  • Spend the full budget:
    Your project must use the full amount of funding as outlined in your application’s budget.

  • Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status:
    DGR status is not required, but if your organisation has it, please provide documentation.

  • Acknowledging the fund:
     To help recognise the contribution of the fund, recipients are required to acknowledge the fund in any promotional materials  using the information provided to them.

  • Reporting:
     Once your project is complete, you will be required to submit a budget acquittal and a final report. The acquittal form is your way of reporting back on how the funds were used and the outcomes of your project.
    What to expect: 
     - After the funds have been paid, the project completion form will appear in your SmartyGrants account.
     - You’ll need to complete and submit this form within one month of the project’s completion date (as listed in your application).

Successful 2025 Community Benefit Fund Recipients

Avon Plains Banyena Landcare Group Inc

Project: Appreciate Biodiversity
Funding: $5,000
Supporting the protection of endangered flora and fauna at Walkers Lake through educational signage and exclusion fencing, helping preserve important local biodiversity while increasing community awareness.

Concongella Primary School

Project: Our Green Space Project
Funding: $7,692.85
Refurbishment of the school oval through improved soil, new turf and irrigation infrastructure, creating a safe, sustainable outdoor space for students and the wider community.

St Arnaud Citizens Band

Project: Installation of Split System at St Arnaud Band Hall
Funding: $5,000
Installation of an energy-efficient heating and cooling system to improve comfort and accessibility within a community facility used by multiple local groups.

Great Western Racing and Recreation Reserve

Project: Floor Tiles
Funding: $6,800
Installation of durable flooring in the function room to enhance the usability, comfort and presentation of this important community venue.

St Patrick's Primary School, St Arnaud

Project: Energy Breakthrough
Funding: $5,000
Supporting student participation in the Energy Breakthrough Challenge, providing hands-on learning opportunities in STEM, innovation and sustainability.

Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN)

Project: Skills Building in Northern Grampians
Funding: $12,200
Providing accredited short courses and industry exposure opportunities to help local secondary students develop skills, confidence and pathways into employment.

Stawell Fire Brigade

Project: Development of Brigade Members
Funding: $4,000
Purchasing new technology to assist volunteers with training, administration and operational requirements, improving accessibility and participation.

Stawell Primary School

Project: Prep Playground Upgrade
Funding: $18,860
Upgrading the prep playground surface to improve safety and create an inviting, inclusive play environment for young students.

Cooinda Burrong Scout Camp

Project: Shower Block Upgrade
Funding: $5,000
Upgrading shower facilities to improve hygiene, accessibility and the overall visitor experience at the camp.

Swifts Great Western Cricket Club

Project: Equipment for Play and Practice
Funding: $2,500
Supporting the purchase of essential cricket equipment to accommodate growing participation and strengthen opportunities for local players of all ages.

WAMA Foundation

Project: Summer Workshop Series
Funding: $5,000
Delivering a series of community botanic art workshops designed to encourage creativity, learning and engagement with the region's unique natural environment.

Community Association of Halls Gap

Project: A Stronger Connected Halls Gap
Funding: $5,000
Supporting the development of a community communications strategy to improve information sharing, connection and preparedness following recent bushfire events.

Concongella Hall Committee of Management

Project: Concongella Hall Rejuvenation Project: Power Upgrade
Funding: $4,592.50
Upgrading the hall's electricity supply by relocating overhead power underground, improving safety and reliability for community users.

Halls Gap Caravan Park and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management

Project: Halls Gap Nature Based Playground Concept
Funding: $10,680
Developing concept designs, feasibility studies and costings for a future nature-based playground that reflects the unique character of the Grampians region.

Great Western Primary School

Project: Playground Completion Project
Funding: $9,130.65
Supporting the completion of playground upgrades, including safety padding and improvements to surrounding infrastructure.

Stawell Inter Church Council

Project: Feeding Those in Need in Stawell for One Month
Funding: $5,000
Providing essential food relief and support to community members experiencing hardship through a volunteer-run emergency assistance service.

Stawell Performing Arts Company Inc. (SPACi)

Project: Sound System for Performing Arts
Funding: $8,544
Purchasing modern sound equipment to enhance community events, performances, local productions and opportunities for emerging performers across the shire.

Contact Us

Phone

(03) 5358 0512

Email

community@ngshire.vic.gov.au

Apply now

About the Bulgana Green Power Hub

For more information about Illuma Energy and the Bulgana Green Power Hub take a look here.

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