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Social Inclusion Action Group: Access Enabler Payments

SIAG Members at launch event

Applications are now open

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Since launching in 2026, the Social Inclusion Action Group has approved Access Enabler Payments for 15 organisations, providing more than $31,000 in support. Funding has helped reduce barriers to participation through initiatives such as transport support, childcare, accessibility supports, community outreach, training and inclusive programs across Greater Geelong.

At a glance

Standard payment: Up to $1,000 per claim

Increased payment: Up to $3,000 where multiple barriers apply or where program has substantial reach.

Applications: Accepted on a rolling basis from 27 April 2026, assessed every two months. Funds are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Apply early to avoid missing out!

Information about the payments

An Access Enabler is a practical support or adjustment that helps community members participate meaningfully in your programs, activities or events. 

Payments can cover (but are not limited to):

  • Transport support: bus hire, taxi vouchers, volunteer driver reimbursements
  • Childcare or respite: to enable parent or carer participation
  • Interpreting and translation: Auslan, language interpreters, cultural liaison
  • Accessibility companions or peer navigators
  • Sensory supports: quiet rooms, sensory kits, headphones
  • Culturally specific supports: that improve safety or belonging
  • Trauma-informed facilitators or support workers
  • Digital accessibility tools
  • Advertising and promotion: to recruit new members
  • Equipment or program fees: for new members where cost is a barrier
  • Mental health training: for facilitators or volunteers

Eligible organisations

  • Not-for-profit incorporated bodies
  • Registered charities (ACNC)
  • Co-operatives and associations
  • Unincorporated groups with an auspice
  • Businesses and sole traders 

Not eligible

  • Organisations with outstanding debts to the City of Greater Geelong
  • Organisations in insolvency or bankruptcy
  • Organisations with unresolved acquittals from prior City funding
  • Schools (for curriculum-based activities)
  • Proof of legal status (e.g. incorporation certificate)
  • Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • Current public liability or professional indemnity insurance
  • Bank account details
  • Physical and postal address

Step 1: Register

Submit your application via SmartyGrants to join the register. You’ll hear back within four weeks.

Step 2: Claim

Once registered, submit a reimbursement claim with your receipts or a quote for forward payment.

Step 3: Receive payment

Payments are processed electronically. Allow 4–8 weeks from approval to receive funds.

Applications are submitted online via SmartyGrants only paper, email or postal applications are not accepted.

Funding Recipients

The Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) Access Enabler Payments support community organisations and groups to reduce barriers to participation, increase inclusion, and help people feel more connected to their community.

In 2025-26, a total of $31,000 was distributed to 15 organisations and community initiatives across Greater Geelong. Funding supported a range of projects focused on inclusion, connection, wellbeing, accessibility, and community participation.

Funding Recipients 2026

OrganisationFunding Amount
Norlane Community Centre Inc$1,000
Bellarine Community Support Register Inc.$1,000
The Empowerment Challenge$3,000
Friend in Me$3,000
Northern Geelong Community Women's Shed$3,000
Association of Bengalis in Geelong Inc$3,000
Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House$1,000
Stitch and Switch (Peta Mustard)$3,000
Geelong Rainbow Inc$1,000
Geelong Women's Shed$3,000
Liberty Disability Services$3,000
genU$1,000
CatholicCare Victoria$3,000
Australian Breastfeeding Association Greater Geelong Group$1,000
Bluebird Foundation$1,000
Total Funding Distributed$31,000
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