Under the Australia Day 2026 Community Events Grant Program, local councils, government entities and not-for-profit (NFP) organisations are eligible to apply for grants of between $2,000 and $15,000 to deliver inclusive and accessible community events on Australia Day.
A new $2,000 grant introduced for the first time for 2026 is expected to be popular for topping up existing budgets or supporting smaller events. Like previous years, $10,000 grants will also still be available, with an additional $5,000 for events that include significant Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander elements.
In 2025, this popular grants program supported over 700 community events across the country, the biggest response in the five years of the program. It is anticipated that the 2026 program, run by the National Australia Day Council (NADC), will be even bigger.
In 2026, the grants will also encourage greater numbers of young Australians to become involved with youth-led ideas, such as concerts, sporting events, community BBQs or creative arts projects.
“Australia Day is a day to connect with family, friends and community – to celebrate the freedoms we share and the values and beliefs we hold,” says Mark Fraser AO CVO, Chief Executive Officer of the NADC.
“We would also love to see more youth-focused and led involvement in Australia Day events.”
The Australian Government has provided financial support for over 3,000 Australia Day events around the country since 2021.
“Whether it’s sharing a meal with neighbours, having a picnic in the park or attending a community event, Australia Day is a time to celebrate being part of a proud, ancient, multicultural nation that values every citizen,” says Mr Fraser.
Applications open Wednesday 13 August 2025 and close at 5pm (AEDT) Monday 8 September 2025. To check eligibility, read the grant guidelines and apply for a grant, visit australiaday.org.au/grants.
