Your simple starting point to finding, planning, and winning grants in Australia.
If you’re new to grants, overwhelmed by where to start, or tired of missing opportunities, you’re in the right place.
This page answers the questions people search for most — and at each step, gives you shortcuts so you can learn faster, avoid mistakes, and start applying with confidence.
1. What is a grant? (And how does it actually work?)
A grant is funding provided by a government, foundation, or corporate funder to support a public benefit. Unlike loans, grants don’t need to be repaid — but they do require a clear purpose, strong evidence, and good planning.
If you’re unsure how to turn your idea into something fundable, the free guide walks you through the exact steps.
2. Who can apply for a grant?
Most beginners are surprised by how broad eligibility is.
You may be eligible if you are:
- A not-for-profit or community group
- A sporting club
- A charity or service organisation
- A school, kinder, or educational group
- A social enterprise
- A business (large or small), sole trader, or start-up
- An unincorporated group with an auspice partner
- Artsist
➡️ Inside the Skills Incubator we have a full eligibility checker + templates to get auspiced.
3. Where do I find grants?
This is the most common search question — and the biggest frustration for beginners.
Main sources:
- Grant newsletters (EasyGrants is our go-to)
- Federal / state grants portals
- Local council funding
- Corporate and philanthropic foundations
- Government department programs
Finding the right funding can be overwhelming — that’s why our ‘Where to Find Grants in Australia’ guide gives you verified links in one place.
Download “Where to Find Grants in Australia” – FREE eGuide
4. What documents do I need for grants?
Almost every application asks for:
- ABN
- Incorporation certificate
- Public liability insurance
- Quotes
- Financials
- Letters of support
- Bank details
- Policies (child safety, OH&S)
➡️ Download the “Grant Ready Checklist” — free.
This checklist becomes your grab-and-go kit so you can apply faster.
5. How do I know if my project is fundable?
Funders want projects that:
- Solve a clear problem
- Benefit a defined group
- Fill a gap in your community
- Are well planned and costed
- Fit with their priorities
- Can be completed on time and on budget
6. What makes a strong grant application?
The formula is simple:
- Strong need
- Clear solution
- Evidence
- Capability
- Logical budget
- Benefits (outcomes)
- Consider Risks
- Benefits (long, medium and short term)
Teach Yourself Grant Writing is a step-by-step guide designed for beginners, volunteers, nonprofit staff, and individuals who need to write winning grant applications but don’t know where to start.
Download our “Teach Yourself Grant Writing” eGuide
7. What are the biggest mistakes beginners make?
Top reasons applications fail:
- Not matching the funder’s priorities
- Weak need statement
- No evidence
- Rushed or unclear budgets
- Missing attachments
- Writing the application before planning the project
8. What’s the easiest way to start?
Here’s the simplest path if you’ve never written a grant before:
Step 1 — Download the free guides
You’ll learn the basics fast and avoid common mistakes.
Step 2 — Build your Grant Ready Kit
Use the free “Grant Ready Checklist.”
Step 3 — Use Resources
Join the Skills Incubator for templates, videos, and Guides.
Step 4 — Apply for a small local grant
Quick wins build confidence and momentum.
Step 5 — Grow into bigger grants
With a plan, a project, and support, you’ll succeed more often — and with less stress.
Teach Yourself Grant Writing is a step-by-step guide designed for beginners, volunteers, nonprofit staff, and individuals who need to write winning grant applications but don’t know where to start.