The Shire recognises the unique contribution made by volunteers, sporting and other community organisations, for without them we would not be the vibrant community we are today. We are committed to supporting our community organisations and now are taking it even further. As a volunteer, sporting or other non-profit community organisation within the Shire of Mundaring, you are invited to apply to Council to assist in holding an event that recognises your group’s importance to the local community. Funding is available for two types of events.

Recognition Events
The Council can contribute $200 to volunteer, sporting or other not-for-profit organisations, to assist in holding an event that recognises the contribution they and their members have made to the local community. Five organisations will receive financial support each year.

Council will receive applications for the funding of a Recognition Event at any time; however only one application per calendar year can be submitted.

Milestone Events
If your organisation has reached a major milestone in its history or development, you may be eligible for Milestone Event funding. The Council allocates $2500 annually towards an event that recognises the efforts of an organisation's members. Funding is only available for one organisation per year.

• the contribution your organisation is making towards the event,
• how the event will benefit your members,
• the consultation that took place with the member to determine their level of support for the event,
• how the Shire of Mundaring's contribution will be recognised, and
• how the success of the event will be measured.

• Funds will not be provided retrospectively, i.e. for an event held previously.
• Funds will not be provided for activities that are the primary responsibility of other funding agencies.
• Organisations that receive funds are required to acknowledge the support for the Shire of Mundaring in any publicity or promotional material for the event.
• Funding for a Milestone Event is provided on the condition that an Acquittal is provided to the Shire of Mundaring immediately following the event. No Acquittal is required for a Recognition Event.
• Payment of funds may be suspended if, in the opinion of Council, any of these conditions are not met.

1. Read grant guidelines & selection criteria carefully. Decide if the grant program looks suitable for your needs. To discuss your needs before submitting an application contact the funding body or the Shire of Mundaring Community Development Officer (Grants) on 08 9290 6666.
2. Do your homework on the project costings:
   • Produce basic budget estimates for public events.
   • Provide the best, most accurate information.
   • Avoid guesswork.
   • Get quotes for work or purchases.
   Don't underestimate the value of in kind or volunteer labour in your costings. Volunteer labour is usually costed at $24 hour per volunteer.
3. Be realistic:
   • Is the group ready to take on the project?
   • Will the group meet the obligations to Council if successful?
   • Will the project actually achieve the desired outcomes?
   • Does the proposal fit easily within the required timeframe?
   • Does the amount requested accurately reflect the true cost of the project?
4. Discuss your project with a grants officer at the Shire of Mundaring if it is for a Shire grant or you need support for your grant application:
   • Check the project objectives fit the guidelines.
   • Answer all questions.
   • Seek advice from council or the funding body if unsure.
5. Keep all information accurate, clear and succinct.
6. Organise all legal, financial and administrative paperwork. If you keep this information on hand you will be able to apply for funding at short notice. You are usually required to provide supporting evidence with your application. This may include:
   • A copy of your organisation's constitution.
   • Annual Report(s), financial statement(s), bank statements.
   • Project budget.
   • Project Marketing Plan.
   • Project Business Plan.
   • Evidence of GST registration.
   • Evidence of public liability insurance.
   • Resume for the project manager, any professional performers or artists.
   Other information you think would assist the selection panel in assessing the application.
7. Demonstrate community support and need for the project. Some evidence that you might like to include:
   • Community was consulted in the project's development stages eg attach a copy of the minutes of a community meeting which passed a motion in support of the project.
   • Community and key stakeholders support the project. (eg include any letters of support or sponsorship). You might also demonstrate that:
   • there are no competing interests, and
   • the project will make a positive contribution to your community and fill an identified community need.
8. Highlight community development outcomes and benefits These might include:
   • Expected level of community participation in the project.
   • Accessibility of project to community members.
   • Future benefits to the community.
   • Partnerships with other community groups.
9. List best person as contact for the group. This person should:
   • Be available during the assessment period.
   • Understand the project completely.
   • Have a copy of everything.
   Keep a record of any contact made by the funding body and the outcome of any discussion.
10. Check and proofread everything and submit before due date: an incomplete document may be automatically disqualified. Late applications are generally not accepted.
    • Check all questions are fully answered.
    • Check all relevant supporting documentation is included.
    It is also prudent to make sure that your local Councillor is aware of the project if you are applying for a Shire grant for a project that involves the Shire, Shire property or will have a significant impact on the general community.