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Community Development Fund (CDF)

What are the Community Development Fund grants?

Council provides annual funding for once-off project and annual event grants to not-for-profit community groups in Knox. The aim of the CDF grants is to develop, enhance and support the involvement of community groups in activities and projects which respond to identified needs in the Knox community

Do you need help getting a project off the ground? Council's Community Development Fund may be able to help with a grant to assist with costs, if your project and group are eligible.

You can hear from some of the groups that have been assisted with a CDF grant in the last few years:
View our CDF Stories.

Grant Information Sessions

Knox City Council has several grant programs which may be able to assist your organisation, group or club. The Community Partnerships Team can speak to you about which grant program will best meet the needs of your organisation, group or club. This can be done via telephone or we can arrange a Zoom appointment. Please contact the Community Partnerships Team to arrange a time on 9298 8000 or email cdf@knox.vic.gov.au

What grants are available?

There are 2 categories of grants available through the CDF grants. Grants are allocated annually for projects taking up to 12 months to complete;

  • Category 1 - $3,000 up to $20,000
  • Category 2 - up to $5,000 for established annual community events

How do the grants work?

  • This year applications will open on 24 May and close on 12 July at 4pm
  • These are one-off grants for a specific project and are not available for recurring funding.
  • Organisations may submit up to 3 applications for separate and distinct projects or events. A separate application form is required for each application.
  • Funded projects to be completed within 12 months from November 2020.

Who CAN apply for Community Development Fund grants?

  • Not-for-profit community groups, with a committee of management, or similar, and its own legal identity.
  • If a group is not incorporated, it can be auspiced (or managed) by an incorporated organisation.

Projects and events that could be funded

To be eligible for funding projects and annual community events must meet the following requirements:

  • Must have a definitive start and finish date
  • Align with Council objectives
  • Aim to meet a demonstrated need within the Knox community
  • Benefit Knox residents

Here are some examples that indicate the range of projects that can be considered:

  • Equipment purchases for community groups.
  • Developing recreation, leisure and/or social support activities to keep people connected.
  • Cultural events and activities that celebrate and promote diversity and a positive sense of place.
  • Arts and cultural development activities that encourage community participation through shared creativity.
  • Implementing strategies that assist people with a disability.
  • Supporting and celebrating the contribution of volunteers.
  • Encouraging participation in lifelong learning and skills development in Knox.
  • Assisting in community safety strategies through community information and involvement.
  • Developing collaboration and partnership.
  • Improve and expand social media platforms, IT equipment and literacy to overcome social isolation and maintain community connection.

Summary of previous approved projects

Summaries of recently funded projects can be viewed in the hyperlinks below.


Who CANNOT apply for Community Development Fund grants

  • Individuals or profit-making businesses
  • Organisations that owe money to Council that has not been paid by the due date
  • Organisations that have outstanding acquittal documentation, i.e. the report for a previous grant has not been handed in by the agreed due date.

Projects and events that CANNOT be funded

  • Fundraising
  • Capital or facility maintenance works
  • State or Federal government responsibilities
  • Retrospective funding
  • Projects that have been funded by the CDF for 3 consecutive years
  • Ongoing operational expenses

Submission period

The submission period for the 2021-2022 CDF grant round opens on 24 May 2021 and closes on 12 July 2021 at 4pm


Help and Advice

Pre-application discussion

Whether community organisations have previously received a CDF grant, or the organisation is submitting for the first-time, community organisations are strongly advised to discuss their proposed application with Council’s Community Partnerships team.

Community organisations should also consider consulting other relevant Council staff and stakeholders about their project. They may be able to advise on service delivery and/or alternative approaches, or provide appropriate information.

Each year Council runs information sessions for community groups to learn about the various funding opportunities. The Community Partnerships Team are available to assist with the application process and schedule appointment times to meet with you.

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