The current Donations Policy was developed more than 20 years ago and no longer reflects modern funding practices or the strategic priorities of the Town. The proposed policy provides a more transparent, equitable and outcomes-focused approach to supporting community initiatives. 

Having funding opportunities available in both January and July allows organisations to apply closer to when their projects, events or initiatives are being planned, rather than waiting for a single annual funding round. This approach also enables the Town to support emerging opportunities throughout the year, encourage broader participation from community groups, and better align funding with project delivery timeframes.

Subject to Council adopting the Community Partnership Policy in November 2026, the inaugural Community Partnership Program will open for applications on 1 January 2027 and remain open for four weeks. The community will be informed of the application process closer to this time. 

For the 2026/27 financial year, applicants may apply for up to $5,000 per project. An individual organisation may apply for both the January and July funding rounds each year.

The Policy applies to:

• Community organisations
• Not-for-profit organisations
• Incorporated associations
• Sporting and recreation clubs
• Educational, cultural and environmental groups
• Organisations delivering programs, events or initiatives benefiting the Cottesloe community

Priority will be given to organisations that operate within Cottesloe, align with the Town's priorities, and demonstrate strong benefits to the community. 

Recipients of funding or support are required to:

• use the funding or support only for the approved purpose;
• obtain all required approvals, licences and permits;
• acknowledge the Town’s support in promotional material, where appropriate;
• submit required acquittal and reporting information within the specified timeframes;
• notify the Town of any significant changes to the approved project, activity or event; and
• comply with any other conditions outlined in the funding agreement.

The Town may require repayment of all or part of the funding where the approved conditions have not been met.

Yes. If you are an individual or private group delivering an initiative that provides a demonstrated community benefit but are not eligible to apply directly, you may apply through an eligible auspice organisation.

The auspice organisation would generally act as the formal applicant and accept responsibility for the funding and associated requirements.

The fee waiver provision provides flexibility should the Town’s Fees and Charges change in the future. It may also apply to other Town fees or charges associated with delivering an event or activity, where these are eligible under the Policy.

No. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee funding. All applications will be assessed through a fair and transparent process, with funding and support subject to available budget and Council discretion.