UPDATE: The Whittlesea Council has just announced a significant allocation of $524,000 in community grants aimed at supporting local groups and not-for-profit organizations. This urgent funding initiative was revealed following a review of applications submitted in September 2025, with six out of thirteen organizations receiving crucial support.
Whittlesea Mayor Cr Lawrie Cox expressed pride in the council’s commitment to community development, stating, “We are able to continue to support our community in delivering a huge range of events, programs, and initiatives.” This program, active since 2023, plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and strength.
The financial breakdown includes three approved small grants totaling over $7,000 and three medium grants exceeding $40,500. Cr Martin Taylor highlighted the importance of grant writing workshops, which received feedback from 90 attendees in September, significantly enhancing their ability to apply for funding.
In a continued effort to bolster community resources, the council allocated $40,000 each to six neighborhood houses throughout Whittlesea. Cr Cox acknowledged the ongoing campaign for additional state government funding to support these essential services, stating, “Our neighborhood houses do a wonderful job for the community on what is a small budget.”
At the council meeting on December 16, Cr Michael Labrador requested a detailed breakdown of the neighborhood houses’ service agreement for discussion in a future briefing, emphasizing their current financial struggles.
Additionally, the council has a service agreement with Whittlesea Community Connections, which received $120,000. A one-time grant of $60,000 was awarded to Energy Smart Homes for its Solar Savers program, while nearly $60,000 was allocated to support the upcoming Diwali festivities and the Whittlesea Color Carnival, organized by Whittlesea Cruise Nights and Mission Smile.
Cr Cox is now urging local businesses to take advantage of the 2026 business-to-business grant program, which offers up to $10,000 to foster local economic growth. “We know the program delivers in helping establish or grow businesses that employ locally and are located in our city,” he stated.
Applications for Round 2 of the grant program are open now. For more information, interested parties can visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/businessgrant.
These funding opportunities signify a robust commitment to enhancing the Whittlesea community, ensuring that organizations have the resources needed to thrive and connect local residents. Stay tuned for more updates as the council continues its efforts to strengthen community ties through strategic investments.
