New Look Community, Business and Events Grants for Hindmarsh

Published on 15 May 2026

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Hindmarsh Shire Council has endorsed a refreshed approach to its Council grants programs with the introduction of new funding streams and clearer priorities to strengthen community wellbeing, local businesses, and major regional events.

Following a comprehensive review, Council has adopted three updated sets of guidelines:

  • Business Boost Grants;
  • Connected Communities Grants; and
  • a new Regional Events Sponsorship Framework.

The former Business Assistance Grants program will now operate as Business Boost Grants, with an increased allocation to $25,000.

The revamped program introduces two targeted streams:

  • Façade Stream – supporting shopfront improvements, accessibility upgrades, signage and heritage restoration to enhance town centres.
  • Start and Grow Stream – helping new and expanding businesses with equipment, digital tools, marketing and start-up costs.

Importantly, the program will now explicitly support home-based, agricultural and online businesses.

$10,000 of the $25,000 allocated to the program will be used for free business training, providing practical support beyond financial assistance.

The Connected Communities Grants program (formerly Community Action Grants) has been redesigned to better reflect community needs and priorities.

The updated program introduces four distinct funding streams:

  • Active Communities – promoting sport, recreation and healthy lifestyles
  • Social Communities – supporting events and activities that foster connection and reduce isolation
  • Creative Communities – encouraging arts, culture and local expression
  • Resourced Communities – helping groups access equipment, materials and essential resources

The changes aim to broaden participation, support diverse projects and ensure more equitable access for community groups across Hindmarsh.

Council has also introduced a Regional Events Sponsorship Framework, replacing the previous Regional Community Events Grants program.

With a funding pool of $25,000, the new framework will:

  • Focus exclusively on major, regionally significant events
  • Provide one annual application round, followed by rolling sponsorship opportunities
  • Strengthen partnerships and ensure events deliver measurable economic, tourism, and community outcomes

Smaller and local events will continue to be supported through the Connected Communities Grants program.

Council will also provide workshops, templates and staff support to make the application process easier and more accessible.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ron Ismay, welcomed these changes, saying the updated programs would deliver stronger outcomes for the community.  “These refreshed grants programs are about making it easier for our community, businesses, and event organisers to access support and bring their ideas to life,” he said.  “By focusing on what matters most – strong communities, thriving local businesses and high-quality regional events – we’re investing in a vibrant and resilient future for our whole Shire.” 

The new grant guidelines are published on Council’s website at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/grants and will be promoted through Council’s social media channels and newsletters.

Community members, businesses and event organisers are encouraged to explore the updated program guidelines and apply when funding rounds open. The first rounds of these grant programs will open from July 2026.

For more information, please contact Mark Fletcher, Manager Economic Development and Tourism on 03 5391 4444, or email mfletcher@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer

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