The aim of the program is to build positive and lasting social and economic benefits by seeking out, undertaking and contributing to activities and projects aligned with these goals.

The grants are open to small scale projects that develop the communities in which HVO operates. Applications should target at least one of these focus areas:

• Capacity building – including education and training, enterprise development and economic diversification
• Health
• Environment
• Local need

Typically, they fund applications up to $5,000 but may consider higher amounts. Applications for part funding will only be considered if remaining funds are already secured.

Preference is given to applications that benefit communities in close proximity to HVO’s operations and activities. 

Is your community project eligible for funding?

To be eligible, the application must:

• be from a not-for-profit, incorporated organisation operating a separate, auditable organisational bank account
• demonstrate the organisation’s ability to manage the proposed project/activity in a professional manner
• primarily benefit at least one of the communities where we operate
• address a substantiated need in the community
• demonstrate how the initiative will directly benefit the local community
• demonstrate a high level of community involvement i.e. be widely beneficial to the community
• demonstrate financial sustainability, i.e. not become reliant on ongoing funding from HVO
• have clearly defined objectives and timeframes
• be received at least 8 weeks prior to the planned project/activity implementation or within the funding round timeframe.

What will not be considered?

Applications for support of:

• political parties or organisations, politicians or candidates for public office
• individuals; including those seeking support for activities such as academic studies, competing in a sporting event, travel or raising funds for another organisation
• ‘for profit’ organisations
• touring sporting or cultural groups or individuals
• religious activities
• any activities which are exclusive to a single faith community
• conferences or speakers at conferences
• production or distribution of advertising or marketing material
• core operating costs of an organisation e.g. staff, operational expenses
• projects/activities that are the responsibility of government
• projects/activities that do not demonstrate financial sustainability
• overseas appeals
• research projects
• projects/activities that have already been completed (retrospective funding)
• Organisations that promote controversial issues or advocate against the coal industry.

• Phone: 0455 782 292
• Email: environmentandcommunity@hvo.com.au