Community Engagement

Essendon Fields is committed to supporting and working with our local community.

An integral part of the local community, Essendon Fields uses a lens of diversity, inclusion and accessibility to maximise social benefit.

We support a range of causes through fundraising and charitable partnerships, as well as create green spaces for our community to enjoy.

Public involvement is important to the success of Essendon Fields, and we actively engage with local residents in regard to airport operations and future development plans.

Essendon Fields has established the Friends of the Fields community grants program, with the aim of supporting community organisations, groups and individuals in our neighboring suburbs.

We’ve developed the program to support people who continue to make the local area a great place to live, work and play, with the aim to:

  • Address community need and make the most of unique local opportunities
  • Improve the quality of life of our neighbouring local areas
  • Foster and strengthen community involvement, participation and community-led initiatives
  • Contribute to the social, cultural and environmental wellbeing of the local community

Since its launch in October 2021, over $200,000 in grants have been paid to organisations in our immediately surrounding suburbs to fund a small community project or develop a neighbourhood activation. Find out more about Round One projects here, Round Two projects here and Round Three projects here.

Who can apply? 

Grants of up to $5,000 are available to community groups, social enterprises and not-for-profit organisations located in:

  1. Aberfeldie
  2. Airport West
  3. Essendon
  4. Essendon North
  5. Glenroy
  6. Gowanbrae
  7. Moonee Ponds
  8. Niddrie
  9. Oak Park
  10. Pascoe Vale
  11. Pascoe Vale South
  12. Strathmore
  13. Strathmore Heights

Application Process 

To apply for a grant, you must first read the EF Community Grants Guidelines, then complete and email your application form to communitygrants@ef.com.au.

Round Three grant applications opened: Monday 2 October 2023

Round Three Applications Closed: Wednesday 15 November 2023

The selection process is discretionary and assessed by a selection panel. Unfortunately, not all applications will be successful due to demand and a limited pool of funding available.

Please note the EF Community Grants program is not affiliated with any local council, and grant applicants must ensure they have all relevant permits and permissions required to complete projects on Council land.

If you require any assistance, please email communitygrants@ef.com.au or contact the EF Office on 9948 9400.

To find out about future funding rounds, please sign up to our e-newsletter.