A groundbreaking report reveals the true community impact of Greater Dandenong City Council’s Community Grants Program.
The Grants Impact Report features project case studies and community outcomes to highlight the difference our investment is making for the local community.
It draws on information provided by recipients through the grant acquittal process and is believed to be the first of its kind released by a local government in Australia.
The report shows that in 2024-25 we invested $1.66 million to support 192 community-led projects.
The Community Grants Program supports partnerships between individuals and groups to build a stronger more resilient Greater Dandenong.
Outcomes from the 2024-25 grants program include:
- 10,875 participants reported increased food security
- 2,050 participants reported increased social connection
- 1,176 participants reported improved mental health
- 1,040 participants reported increased skills development
- 369 participants reported employment outcomes
- 490 participants reported increased feelings of safety
- 26.5 tonnes of waste was diverted from landfill through funded projects.
The report also highlighted the contribution of volunteers, community organisations and partner agencies to deliver outcomes that support the wellbeing of Greater Dandenong residents.
Greater Dandenong Mayor, Cr Sophie Tan said the grants program made a real difference.
“Our Council Vision is that Greater Dandenong is a home to all. It’s a city where you can enjoy and embrace life through celebration and equal opportunity,” Mayor Tan said.
“Our investment in small, medium and large grants helps us support our community to support one another and create a socially connected, safe and healthy city.”
The report also revealed:
- The Arts, Festivals and Events grant stream contributed $383,000 to support events that engaged more than 195,000 people.
- More than $121,000 was awarded to 105 applicants in the Small Grants program, directly benefitting more than 27,000 people.
- 52 Medium Grants, to the value of almost $303,000, were awarded. More than 1532 volunteers were involved in funded programs and almost 90,000 people benefitted from events and activities.
- 35 Large Grants with a total value of $1.24 million were awarded. Almost 150,000 people (including 90,000 Greater Dandenong residents) benefited from the Large Grants program, and more than 1500 volunteers helped deliver events, programs and activities in this category.
