Council would like to share some important information regarding the upcoming 2026/2027 Community Capital Works Grants (CCWG) program.

The CCWG program has been instrumental in supporting local community groups in enhancing community facilities.

Following a thorough review and community consultation, Council has made significant updates to the CCWG Policy to enhance the application process for all community groups.

Updated Policy Highlights:

Fewer Categories:

• The policy has been streamlined to two categories, removing the council-managed projects category and expanding the major equipment category to cover more necessary equipment.

Funding Details:   

• Projects costing less than $5,000 do not require any applicant contribution.

• Projects over $5,000 will require applicants to provide 50% of the funding.

Application Changes:

• What was previously known as the "Expression of Interest" process is now referred to as a "Project Proposal." We’ve extended the submission period to allow more time for submissions. Project Proposals will close by Tuesday, 27 January 2026.

Outcome Reporting:

• Applicants will need to demonstrate detailed evidence of the project's success in achieving intended outcomes.

Key Dates:

2026/2027 Community Capital Works round:

• Stage 1 applications open: Stage 1 Project Proposal applications will open on Tuesday, 30 September 2025.

• Submission deadline: All proposals must be submitted by the closing date of Tuesday, 27 January 2026.

• Assessment of proposals: Following the assessment of the Project Proposals, successful applicants will be invited to submit a Stage 2 Detailed Grant Application with full details of the project.

To assist the community in understanding these updates, Council will host two more information sessions:

• Wednesday, 24 September - In-person session at the Civic Centre, Council Chambers, 20 Siding Avenue, Officer at 6:30pm.

• Tuesday, 14 October - Online session at 7pm.

We encourage you to attend the session that best suits your schedule. If you register for an online session, a link will be sent via email.

For further details about the updated CCWG Policy, how to submit a project proposal, or to register for an information session, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ccwg or contact ccwg@cardinia.vic.gov.au or 1300 787 624.