our grants
background
small grants program
Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways continues the work of the Missionary Sisters of Service (MSS) reaching out in hope and love to people socially and geographically isolated, strengthening community relationships and networks, developing leadership and empowering people to meet the challenges that confront them.
Since 1944 the MSS have travelled vast distances to reach people in all kinds of places and situations, and support those on the margins: geographically, culturally, spiritually, socially and economically.
Each year we provide small grants to community-led organisations for projects that address disadvantage and exclusion within towns and communities, especially in rural and regional Australia.
Embracing and Valuing Diversity in Nature and Community
The theme of our 2025 Small Grants Program – ‘Embracing and Valuing Diversity in Nature and Community’ – recognises that we are entering challenging times for many Australians as the growing impacts of climate change continue to cause severe damage to land, homes and communities, especially in rural and regional Australia. Extreme weather events are affecting communities that are already under stress through previous disasters, with rebuilding challenges, the realities of everyday financial stresses, and limited employment opportunities in vulnerable communities.
Our fragile ecosystems are experiencing unprecedented stress. This is reducing the environmental capital on which current and future economies depend. Social, environmental and economic impacts are already apparent.
ELEGIBILITY & HOW TO APPLY
You must first ensure your project fits the grant criteria and aligns with our theme for the year. Grants are open to all communities Australia wide, with preference being given to rural/remote/regional communities (download guidelines). Once ready to apply you can do so via our online application or by downloading the application form and returning by 5.00pm AEDT Tuesday 1 April 2025.
Who can apply?
We are able to fund community groups or organisations which can demonstrate that they are at
How much can I apply for?
Grants of up to $5,000 are available.
What is the 2025 focus area?
The theme of our 2025 Small Grants Program – ‘Embracing and Valuing Diversity in Nature and Community’ – recognises that we are entering challenging times for many Australians as the growing impacts of climate change continue to cause severe damage to land, homes and communities, especially in rural and regional Australia. Extreme weather events are affecting communities that are already under stress through previous disasters, with rebuilding challenges, the realities of everyday financial stresses, and limited employment opportunities in vulnerable communities.
Our fragile ecosystems are experiencing unprecedented stress. This is reducing the environmental capital on which current and future economies depend. Social, environmental and economic impacts are already apparent.
What type of projects will you support in 2025?
We are keen to support community-based grass roots initiatives which address any of the following:
- Contribute to building strong and resilient communities, especially in areas affected by
extreme weather events. - Build unity and find common grounds of understanding and shared knowledge across
an initiative. - Encourage partnerships amongst individuals, groups and/or organisations.
- Foster engagement, diversity and cultural connections by sharing knowledge and skills
in local community-based programs/events. - Support intergenerational and Indigenous/Non-Indigenous exchanges of knowledge and
skills for the sustainable and/or regenerative management of the land. - Provide opportunities for program participants to develop leadership or other personal
and community-building skills
When do grants open and close?
Applications are open now.
Applicants must complete an application form and submit it to Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways Small Grants Program by:
5.00pm AEDT Tuesday 1 April 2025.
How do I apply?
Applications can be submitted in one of the following ways:
• Online
Download an application form via our website, complete and email to:
highwaysandbyways@marymackilloptoday.org.au
• Hard copy
Download an application form complete and mail to:
Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways Small Grants Program
PO Box 1646, North Sydney NSW 2059
When do you announce successful applicants?
Successful applicants will be notified in May 2025.
A grant agreement will need to be signed by an authorised representative of your organisation.
How long do I have to complete my project?
Projects are to be completed within 12 months unless otherwise negotiated
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