Volunteer Grants
Small federal grants that help community organisations support their volunteers. Here is what Volunteer Grants fund, who can apply, how much you can get, and how to write an application that wins.
At a glance
Rounds, amounts and rules change from year to year. Always confirm the current details with the funder or your local federal member before you apply.
Need help with this grant?
Speak to a grant writer today →What are Volunteer Grants?
Volunteer Grants are a long-running Australian Government program that helps not-for-profit and community organisations support the volunteers who keep them running. Applications are usually invited through federal electorates, with local members nominating organisations in their area.
The grants are small and practical, so the strongest applications show exactly how the money will make volunteering easier, safer or more accessible for the people who give their time.
Who it is for
The program is aimed at community organisations whose work depends on volunteers. Funders generally look for organisations that:
- Are not-for-profit and community based
- Have a clear volunteer base and a plan to support it
- Can show a practical, costed use for the funds
- Can manage and report on the grant
What it funds and how much
Grants typically range from around one thousand to five thousand dollars. Common uses include:
- Equipment and small items volunteers need
- Training and skills development
- Background and police checks
- Fuel and transport reimbursement for volunteers
How to write a competitive application
Volunteer Grants are competitive but straightforward. Here is what makes an application stand out.
1. Show the volunteer benefit
Describe who your volunteers are and exactly how the funding will help them do their work.
2. Keep the request practical
Itemise what you will buy or pay for and tie each item to a volunteer need.
3. Connect with your local member early
Because the program runs through electorates, a conversation with your federal member's office can clarify timing and priorities.
4. Be ready to acquit
Show that you can keep receipts and report simply on how the money was used.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Asking for general running costs instead of volunteer-focused items
- A vague budget with no itemised costs
- Missing the round because you did not know it had opened
Want an expert to write it for you?
Speak to a grant writer today →A stronger application, and your time back
Grants are competitive, and the detail is where they are won or lost. A professional grant writer helps you put your best case forward, and frees your team to keep doing the work.
We know what funders look for, answer every criterion, keep your budget clean, hit every deadline, and tell you honestly which grants are worth chasing.
Volunteer Grants FAQ
How do we apply?
Rounds are usually run through federal electorates, so the first step is checking with your local federal member's office. We can help you track when the next round opens.
Can we apply every year?
Often yes, if you remain eligible and the round is open in your electorate. Each round has its own rules.
Can Giving Tree Advisors write the application for us?
Yes. We can check your eligibility, shape a practical, itemised request and write the whole application, so your team can stay focused on your volunteers.
Let's turn this grant into a win.
Book a free grant consultation and we will tell you whether Volunteer Grants suit you, and how to put your strongest application forward.