Grants up to $15 million for community-focused infrastructure projects that will deliver significant economic and social benefits to enhance amenity and liveability in regional Australia.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Growing Regions Program (GRP)
The Growing Regions Program Round 2 is a significant initiative by the Australian Government, aimed at boosting economic prosperity in regional, rural, and remote areas through investment in community-focused infrastructure. With a total of $393 million available over three years, this program seeks to enhance liveability, accessibility, and social cohesion in communities across Australia.
GRP level of support
Grant
- Minimum Funding: $500,000
- Maximum Funding: $15 million
- Total Funding Available: $393 million over three years
Up to 90% of total eligible costs for the following projects (Group 1):
- Projects run by First Nations Community Controlled Organisations (as defined in Section 16 Glossary) or
- Projects located in ‘very remote’ locations per the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Remoteness Structure as detailed in the mapping tool
Up to 70% of total eligible costs for the following projects (Group 2):
- Projects located in ‘remote’ locations per the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Remoteness Structure as detailed in the mapping tool or
- Projects run by ‘low rate-based’ councils, determined using the ratio of Financial Assistance Grant to Net Rate Income listed in Appendix E.
Up to 50% of total eligible cost for all other projects (Group 3):
- All remaining projects.
Co-contribution
- Minimum 10% of total eligible project expenditure for Group 1 projects
- Minimum 30% of total eligible project expenditure for Group 2 projects
- Minimum 50% of total eligible project expenditure for Group 3 projects
- Cash only
- Sources can include state, territory and local government grants but not Commonwealth grants
See the guidelines for full details of co-funding groups and locations.
GRP important dates
- This program is now closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
GRP objectives
The primary objectives of the Growing Regions Program Round 2 are to:
- Construct or upgrade community infrastructure that addresses an unmet need, especially in rapidly growing communities.
- Enhance social outcomes, liveability, and community connectedness.
- Provide multi-use infrastructure that benefits a wide cross-section of the community, contributing to accessibility and social inclusion.
Projects eligible for GRP support
Eligible projects under this program include, but are not limited to:
- Construction of New Community Infrastructure: Projects that create new facilities that enhance community engagement, such as multi-purpose community hubs, youth centres, and sports facilities.
- Expansion or Upgrade of Existing Infrastructure: Enhancements to existing infrastructure that increase its usability for the broader community, including town centre revitalisation, bike or walking paths, and green spaces.
- Multi-Use Centres: Facilities that serve a wide range of community needs, such as centres providing childcare, libraries, and shared meeting spaces.
See the guidelines for full details on eligible projects.
Activities and expenditure eligible for GRP support
To be eligible, expenditure must:
- Directly Relate to the Project: All costs must be directly tied to the construction or upgrade activities of the approved project.
- Include Material Costs: This covers building materials, ICT cabling, fixed furniture, and landscaping necessary for the project.
- Cover Contract and Labour Costs: Expenses for external labour, consulting services (like architecture and design), and hired equipment used for construction are eligible.
- Support Pre-Construction Activities: Limited to 20% of total project costs, eligible pre-construction expenses include planning, environmental approvals, and design services incurred during the project period.
Ineligible Activities and Expenditure
- Commercial Infrastructure: Projects that are primarily commercial in nature, such as developments for business purposes, are ineligible.
- Routine Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance, upgrades, or repairs of existing infrastructure that do not demonstrate significant community benefit are not covered.
- Operational Costs: Routine operational expenses, such as salaries for existing staff, office supplies, and general administration, are ineligible.
Other GRP important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for GRP support
To be eligible, applicants must be:
- An incorporated not-for-profit organisation.
- A local government agency or body.
- Organisations must also have an Australian Business Number (ABN) or be registered with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC).
GRP assessment criteria
The program assesses applications based on three merit criteria:
- Contribution to Social and Community Inclusion (40 points): How the project improves community connections and addresses community needs.
- Alignment with Government and Regional Strategic Priorities (20 points): The extent to which the project aligns with social, economic, and environmental priorities in the region.
- Capacity, Capability, and Resources to Deliver and Sustain the Project (40 points): The applicant’s track record, project planning, and readiness to commence.
How do I get GRP?
You should read and understand the guidelines.
You need to ensure your organisation is eligible for the funding. Organisations must meet all of the eligibility criteria outlined above to be considered.
Successful applicants will demonstrate:
- A community-focused infrastructure project that aligns with regional and Government priorities and has community support.
- An identified gap or community need and the social and economic benefits the project will deliver.
- Sound project planning, including implementation methodology, community consultation, and risk identification, to manage the project during the funding period and maintain it into the future.
- A project team with the track record and necessary resources to support the successful completion of the project within the agreed timeline.
Information to prepare for the GRP application
Ensure you have the following documentation ready:
- Proof of not-for-profit status and incorporation.
- Evidence of project readiness, including development approvals and cost estimates.
- Confirmation of co-funding contributions from other sources.
Applying for GRP
Applications must be submitted online through the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources (DISR) portal.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
GRP resources
- Source
- Round 2 Program Guidelines
- Minister’s media release
- Eligibility checklist
- Fact sheet
- Program eligibility mapping tool
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