Youth Go! Grants set to open for 2026

⁠⁠⁠Campaspe Shire Council’s Youth GO! Grants program is back, with applications open from 1 June to 28 June for funding towards youth-led activities.

A key outcome of the Victorian Government’s Engage! funding, the program supports youth engagement, participation, development, celebration and events, by helping young people aged 12–25 bring their ideas to life through inclusive and engaging community events.

Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the grants were about giving Campaspe youth the confidence, skills and support to take the lead in shaping activities that matter to them.

“Youth GO! Grants back our local young people to turn their ideas into action,” Cr Mackrell said.

“Whether it’s a creative project, a social event or something that brings young people together in a new way, this program helps remove barriers and gives them the tools to succeed.”

Grants of up to $1,500 per application are available to not‑for‑profit organisations and educational institutions. Funding may be used to support a wide range of youth‑led activities, programs and events, including (but not limited to) movie nights, art exhibitions, musical performances, sporting events, and bus trips. Schools are encouraged to apply for projects that are informed by students 2026 Youth Summit ideas. Schools can contact the Youth Community Development Officer for this information.

Applicants will choose from 3 categories:

Category 1: Youth engagement and participation – activities that promote the voices of young people and participation in decision making

Category 2: Youth development – activities that support young people to develop new skills through training, mentoring and volunteering

Category 3: Youth celebration and events – activities that showcase and recognise young people’s contribution to the community

The application criteria for the grants include that events:

• must be alcohol-free, smoke-free and drug-free;
• are to be accessible to all young people; and
• must be based in Campaspe Shire and held prior to May 31, 2027.

Cr Mackrell encouraged young people to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the program also builds leadership and life skills.

“Planning an event for their peers is a great way for young people to build confidence, work as a team and make a positive contribution to their community,” he said.

“Council is proud to support initiatives that strengthen social connection and wellbeing for young people across Campaspe.”

Grant support pop-up sessions:

• Wednesday, 10 June from 2-5pm - Kyabram Service Centre and Library
• Friday, 12 June from 2-5pm - Echuca Library
• Wednesday, 17 June from 2-5pm - Rochester Service Centre and Library
• Monday, 22 June from 2-5pm - Rushworth Service Centre and Library

If you need assistance with your application or wish to discuss what funding opportunities are best suited for your project, contact our friendly Grants Team on 1300 666 535.

Applications open Monday, 1 June and close at midnight on Sunday, 28 June 2026. Applicants can expect to be notified of the outcome of their application approximately six weeks after the closing date, in early August.

Learn more and apply at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/youthgrants