CFAs: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Grant Program (Australia)

The ACT Government offers grants to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and surrounding regions. These grants aim to strengthen cultural integrity, enhance community leadership, and promote lifelong learning and social participation. Applications close at 3 PM on 5 November 2026. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: ACT Government

- Funding Categories: Cultural, Leadership and Lifelong Learning, Social Participation

- Funding Range: $500 to $10,000

- Eligible Applicants: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and not-for-profit organizations

- Eligible Locations: ACT and connecting regions, including Queanbeyan-Palerang and Yass Valley

- Application Deadline: 3 PM on 5 November 2026

- Decision Notification: February 2027

About the Opportunity

The grant program is aligned with the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2019-2028. It supports initiatives that promote cultural integrity, develop leadership skills, and encourage lifelong learning among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The program also aims to enhance social participation and community connectedness. Funding and Benefits

- Cultural Grants: Up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations to support activities that celebrate and maintain cultural practices.

- Leadership and Lifelong Learning Grants: Up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations to develop leadership and governance skills.

- Social Participation Grants: Up to $500 for individuals to support activities that enhance social inclusion and community participation.

Who Is Eligible? Organizations - Must be a non-government, legally incorporated entity or supported by an incorporated auspicing organization. - Must be a registered not-for-profit or charitable organization. - Must demonstrate a strong connection to the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. - Cannot have received funding from another source for the same or similar project. - Must have appropriate insurance and no overdue acquittals. Individuals - Must be over 18 years old or have a parent/carer apply on behalf of a dependent under 18. - Must reside in the ACT or a connecting region. - Must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. - Cannot have received funding from another source for the same or similar project. - Must have appropriate insurance, including a Working With Vulnerable People card if applicable. - Must have no overdue acquittals for previous grants. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas

- Cultural Grants: Support activities that promote cultural awareness, collaboration, and celebration of cultural milestones.

- Leadership and Lifelong Learning Grants: Support projects that build leadership capabilities, governance, and engagement in parliamentary processes.

- Social Participation Grants: Support activities that promote social inclusion through various community engagement projects.

Why This Opportunity Matters This grant program plays a crucial role in empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by fostering cultural preservation, leadership development, and community participation. It helps build a more inclusive and culturally rich society, benefiting both individuals and broader communities. How to Apply

- Read the Guidelines:

- Register for Information Sessions:

- In-person: 21 October 2026, 6-7 PM at Boomanulla Oval.

- Online: 30 October 2026, 12-1 PM. Email OATSIA@act.gov.au to register.

- Submit Application:

- Register or log into your account. - Complete and submit the application form online before the deadline. Next Steps Eligible applicants should review the official guidelines and prepare their applications carefully. Attend the information sessions for additional guidance and submit applications by the specified deadline to be considered for funding.