Grants of up to $5000 are available to support local projects and community events that enhance neighbourhoods and improve the lives of Playford residents.

In the program’s last round, Council approved a total of $31,380 in funding to nine local projects. The winners were announced in October 2023, including the Hands of Hope Foundation Inc.

The foundation held their Standing Strong Program late last year, a new eight-week initiative from John Hartley School, designed to empower women who have experienced trauma, particularly linked to family and domestic violence. This program will run again early this year.

UN Youth Australia’s state branch was another successful applicant who secured funding to support their youth engagement school visits.

The national youth-led organisation will provide half-day sessions to five schools in Playford throughout early 2024. A summit will be organised upon its conclusion in May 2024, bringing together all students in a cohesive full-day educational and debate experience at the Stretton Centre.

The half-day school sessions focus primarily on interdisciplinary thinking – mixing concepts from various fields, such as combining neurology, psychology and statistics forms cognitive science – this style of thinking will cover topics such as civic and governance, sustainability and the space industry.

UN Youth SA President Ilya Aidman said working directly with Council through the grants program enabled them to greatly improve the accessibility of their educational sessions.

“Our commitment to engaging with Adelaide's northern suburbs would not be possible without the support of committed local partners like the City of Playford."

The new round of Community Development and Events Grant Program is now open for applications, closing 5:00pm Friday 23 February 2024.

Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty encouraged local groups to put their best projects and events forward for funding.

“Supporting grassroot projects which are led by our hardworking community groups reaps rewards for our whole community,” said Mayor Glenn Docherty.

“The funding helps these groups to broaden their scope and maximise the good they already do, so more people in our community can benefit from their work.”

Council’s Grant Officer Karen Leithboro is available to support groups and individuals with their applications. Please contact Karen on 8256 0230 or email grants@playford.sa.gov.au

A free grant writing workshop for those wanting to sharpen their skills and ask questions is being held on Monday 5 February 2024, 6:15pm to 8:30pm. Hurry, as limited spots are available. Register here and for more information, please contact Council's Sport and Recreation Officer, Ben Mesisca on 8256 0357 or BMesisca@playford.sa.gov.au

To find out more about City of Playford grants and to submit your application, head to Playford.sa.gov.au/grants

Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the guidelines and eligibility criteria before applying.