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Volunteer Grants support the work of community organisations that rely on volunteers by removing barriers to volunteering and promoting awareness of volunteering opportunities.

Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will be available to assist eligible not-for-profit community organisations that rely on volunteers. Grants can be used to purchase communication or insurance items and/or purchase items for the main purpose of supporting volunteer cohorts and volunteer-run activities as specified in the Grant Opportunity Guidelines.

The 2025–26 Volunteer Grants will open for expressions of interest through Federal Members of Parliament (MP). Organisations are advised to read the Grant Opportunity Guidelines and contact their local Federal MP for details on how to submit an expression of interest.

Organisations nominated by their MP will be invited by the Department of Social Services to fill out an application form in May 2026.

Other grants and funding available

There are many other grants and monies available to services looking for a funding boost. Check the NSW Government’s list to find a government initiative, grant, or funding program to support new projects or organisational improvements here.

The NSW Centre for Volunteering’s website keeps a list of current grant and funding opportunities, click here to find it.

Boost your grant-writing skills

You can learn how to write a strong grant application through Volunteering Australia’s National Knowledge Base by clicking here, or visit their online learning module for guidance on fundraising strategies, legal requirements, finding grants, and preparing and writing successful applications.