Council is offering grants of up to $1500 through the Monthly Grant Program for community projects to shine a spotlight on this year's global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign.
This global campaign aims to raise awareness and galvanise individuals, communities and organisations to address gender inequalities and call out harmful gender stereotypes to prevent violence and create a safer and more equal society.
Grant funding can support a range of activities such as community programs, events, public space activation to create unique, dynamic and inclusive local places, virtual events, arts and cultural initiatives.
Read more about the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
Grant applications are open from 1 August to 31 October 2025.
Selection criteria
To be considered for funding in this category, your project will meet a minimum of 2 of the following criteria (1 mandatory plus 1 additional).
Mandatory criteria
Projects must:
- provide opportunities for the community to participate in a local (Yarra Ranges based), community-led 16 Days of Activism event or initiative
- highlight the importance of 16 Days of Activism and why the campaign exists.
Additional criteria
Projects must meet at least 1 of these criteria:
- Create volunteer opportunities.
- Build on existing community strengths and opportunities.
- Strengthen social connection, a sense of belonging and inclusion.
- Community events that build a shared vision and goals for a local community.
Note
- Projects can apply for up to $1500 through the Connected and Vibrant Communities category.
- Applicants will need to demonstrate how the 16 Days of Activism event will raise awareness of gender-based violence in the wider community.
- If successful, applicants will still be eligible to apply for funding through the Monthly Grants program, in addition to a 16 Days of Activism grant.
- The projects need to take place during 16 Days of Activism campaign period, 25 November to 10 December 2025.
Key application dates
We will assess 16 Days of Activism applications quickly. We expect a turnaround time of 4 weeks from the close of the Monthly Grant round. Approximate times are detailed below.
Application rounds close
- Last calendar day of each month.
Assessment of application
- 3 to 4 weeks from round closing.
Notification of outcome
- 4 weeks after closing date.
Payment of grant
- 2 weeks after notification.
Preparing your application
Before applying for a 16 Days of Activism grant, we recommend you carefully review the selection criteria.
Please note that your project needs to take place during the 16 Days of Activism campaign, 25 November to 10 December 2025).
Read the Monthly Grants program guidelines.
Register for a SmartyGrants account.
Apply now
Submit your application for a 16 Days of Activism grant online using the 'Connected and Vibrant Communities category.
Apply for a grant