Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collaboration fund

Supports local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led projects that build stronger local communities.

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Grants team

Before applying please contact the team to arrange a call back to discuss your project.

: 02 9265 9333
: [email protected]

Applications now open

This program is open all year for applications until the budget is exhausted.

We review applications in groups to align approvals with Council meetings.

There are 2 rounds in the 2025-26 fund:

Apply by Wednesday 26 November 2025 - projects must start after 23 February 2026.
Apply by Wednesday 4 March 2026 - projects must start after 18 May 2026.

You’ll usually hear back within 3 months of submitting your application, but sometimes it may take longer.

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About this program

This funding program supports a strong and sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled sector to meet the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the local area.

Funding supports increased self-determination and equity led by, or in partnership with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through projects that connect people with community, Country and culture.

Our funding will prioritise projects that:
- are led by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities
- achieve positive results for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- support local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned or led organisations to sustain their capacity, impact and ability to survive, thrive and flourish.
Proposals are assessed against:
- evidence of the need for the project
- demonstrated connection, benefit to, and engagement with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the planning and delivery of the project or program
- your capacity and experience to deliver the project or program.
Additional criteria for projects requesting more than $20,000:
- how the project or program delivers against the funding priorities.
For more information, see the ‘What the assessment criteria means’ section under ‘Application tips’ in the grants and sponsorship program guidelines.
For comprehensive information, including definitions and other details, refer to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island collaboration fund program in the grants and sponsorship program guidelines.

For information on how to ensure a safe and successful event refer to the City’s event guidelines, associated policies and procedures.

If your project involves an outdoor event within the City of Sydney please discuss your event with the Outdoor Events & Filming Team via email on [email protected] or on (02) 9265 9333.

See list of recent grant recipients, which includes a description of projects and amount approved.

The goals we have set to make the city green, global and connected are outlined in Sustainable Sydney 2030-2050 Continuing the Vision.

Funding available

Cash funding up to $50,000 is available, for a one-year program or multi-year funding (up to 3 years).

Value-in-kind in the form of street banner pole hire and indoor venue hire is also available. You can apply for up to $5,000 for capital expenditure or equipment.

Applicants can include the cost of necessary insurances in their application.

For any questions, please contact the grants team on 02 9265 9333 or email [email protected].

Eligibility

- Individuals must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and be accepted as such by the community.
Groups must consist of majority Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members. 

Organisations must have a governing body that is majority Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

These individuals and organisations can apply:
- eligible not-for-profit organisation
- incorporated association
- corporation
- co-operative
- partnership
- sole trader
- trustee of a trust
- individual auspiced by an eligible not-for-profit organisation or corporation
- unincorporated community group auspiced by an eligible not-for-profit organisation or corporation.
If you work with an auspicing organisation, we encourage you to choose one that is relevant to the sector and that can support the development of the proposal.

This program is open to for-profit entities.

For the definition of each eligible applicant above, see the glossary/definitions section in the in the grants and sponsorship program guidelines.

Proof of Aboriginality requirement

To be eligible for this fund, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander individuals, sole traders and unincorporated community groups will be required to provide confirmation of Aboriginality. It is preferred this confirmation is from a registered Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisation and stamped with its common seal, which confirms the applicant:
- is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent
- identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
- is accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community in which you live or formerly lived.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations are required to provide proof of certification and/or registration from the following: