Grants to support those living with disability

DISABLED employment and support advocacy agency are-able has opened its 2025 community grants program to applications.

Applications opened on 3 March and will close on 14 April, with successful recipients to be announced on 12 May.

The are-able Foundation, which delivers the grants, is a community-based fund established in 2004 to support organisations that improve access and opportunities for people living with a disability or disadvantage.

Since its inception, the foundation has distributed more than $1.6 million to businesses and community organisations throughout Victoria.

It provides up to $1000 in grants each year, with applicants able to apply for up to $5000 each.

Are-able is community-based and not-for-profit, and channels funding to regional communities through the foundation and specialist programs.

It has a presence in multiple locations around Victoria including Ballarat, Wendouree, Castlemaine and Bendigo.

“The are-able Foundation is dedicated to driving meaningful change by supporting organisations that positively impact the lives of individuals with disabilities or experiencing disadvantage,” its marketing and communications manager Stephanie Caunter said.

“By investing in these initiatives, we aim to help build stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

To be eligible for an are-able Foundation community grant, applicants must represent a small to medium not-for-profit organisation (under $1 million annual turnover).

Proposed projects must be located within an are-able geographical area, directly benefit people experiencing disability or disadvantage, and align with are-able’s mission and values.

Applicants must meet additional criteria such as providing proof of incorporation, an ABN or ACN, and ensuring the project can be implemented within two months if successful.

Recipients of grants in 2024 included the Women’s Shed Ballarat and the Ballarat Bulldogs All Abilities Football Netball Club; the Sisterhood Project in Bendigo; the Rochester Business Network and the Castlemaine Community House.

Apply at areable.org.au/foundation.

DARREN McLEAN