2026/27 Rapid Response Program

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This is a preview of the 2026/27 Rapid Response Application form. When you’re ready to apply, click Fill Out Now to begin.
 

BEFORE YOU START

Before you begin your application, please read the Community Funding Guidelines and information below carefully.
 
This section will help you check whether your organisation and project are eligible, and whether you have the required documents ready. Applications that do not meet eligibility requirements, or are missing information, cannot be supported.

RAPID RESPONSE PROGRAM

The Rapid Response Program supports local organisations to deliver projects that bring people together, build community connections, and improve wellbeing across the Greater Geraldton local government area.

The program funds community-led activities that help people learn, celebrate, participate and stay connected, and is specifically designed for short lead-time, quick-turnaround requests.

If, upon review, your application is considered better suited to another City funding program (for example, where timelines align with the Community Initiatives, Community Event or Sporting Facilities & Equipment Programs), it will not be supported through the Rapid Response Program.  In this case, you will be encouraged to apply through the most suitable program.

Applicants may also request in-kind support as part of their application (for example, waived venue or equipment hire fees). Further information is available in the Community In‑Kind Assistance Program section of the Community Funding Guidelines.

Professional grant-writing experience is not expected.  Short responses or bullet point answers are acceptable, provided each question is clearly addressed.

Applicants are encouraged to keep responses under 100 words per question, however longer responses will be accepted.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

When making funding recommendations, the assessment panel primarily consider the following:
  • Clear community benefit
  • Capacity to deliver the project
  • Alignment to City priorities
  • Realistic and affordable budget

WHO CAN APPLY (APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY)

You cannot apply if you are:

  • A political party
  • A Federal, State or Local Government agency or body
  • An educational institution (including P&C Associations)
  • A for-profit organisation
  • A private or public company (unless registered as a charity)
  • A City of Greater Geraldton employee or elected Council member
 

PROJECT ELIGIBILITY

Your project, program, event or activity must meet all of the following requirements: 

  • Benefits the City of Greater Geraldton community
  • Is delivered within the City of Greater Geraldton local government area
  • Aligns with the City’s Strategic Community Plan
  • Has not received funding from another City program in the same financial year
  • Has met all conditions of any previous City funding
  • Has not started, and will not start, until funding outcomes are announced
  • Is the only application your organisation submits in this funding round 
Important: Projects that have already started, or where costs have already been incurred, are not eligible.  The City does not provide retrospective funding.

WHAT CITY FUNDING CANNOT BE USED FOR

City funding cannot be used to cover the following costs:
  • Day-to-day operational costs (including staff wages, insurance, rent or utilities
  • Catering (including water or meals)
  • Cash prizes
  • Uniforms
  • Bonds

If City funding is requested for any of the items above, the funding amount may be reduced to exclude those costs.

Applicants are encouraged to ensure City funding is only requested for eligible expenses.

FUNDING AMOUNTS

You may apply for up to $3,000, with no applicant co-contribution required.

Requests for in‑kind support can be included in your Rapid Response application. Further details are available in the Community In‑Kind Assistance Program section of the Community Funding Guidelines.

 

Upon acquittal of the funding / project, any portion of the City's contribution that has not been expended on eligible and approved items, must be returned to the City.

Amounts awarded to the successful applicants are final.

DOCUMENTS YOU WILL NEED

Before starting your application, you should have the following ready:

  • A Project Outline, including a clear description and timelines.
  • A description of the expected benefits or outcomes
  • A detailed budget, including income and expenses
  • Letters of Support (Letters of Support from City employees or elected Council members are not permitted)
  • Two separate contact email addresses (one email address cannot be used for the two listed contacts)

NEED HELP?

If you are unsure about:

  • Your eligibility
  • Which funding program is best for your project, or
  • What documents are required

please contact the City’s Grants Team before applying at grants@cgg.wa.gov.au.

READY TO APPLY

If you have read the information above and confirmed that you meet all eligibility requirements, you can proceed with your application through the City’s online grants portal.

 

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Applications that do not meet the eligibility requirements cannot be assessed.