Collie Futures Small Grants Program

Purpose and Program Overview

The Collie Futures Small Grants Program, part of the broader $20 million Collie Futures Fund, supports projects that drive economic diversification and job creation in the Collie region of Western Australia. It aims to transition the area from its coal-based economy to a sustainable and varied economic base, fostering long-term growth.

The program provides up to $100,000 per project to stimulate local business, tourism, and community initiatives. It contributes to the $3.5 billion South West regional economy by encouraging innovation and reducing reliance on traditional industries like coal mining.

By aligning with the Collie-Bunbury Economic Development Action Plan 2020–2026, the program supports a Just Transition framework, ensuring economic resilience and job opportunities for Collie’s communities.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Up to $100,000 per project.
• Application open and close dates: Program paused; relaunch expected early 2026 (dates TBD).
• Eligible industries or business types: Small-to-medium enterprises, not-for-profits, and local government authorities.
• Required co-contributions: Not mandatory but encouraged; cash co-contribution strengthens applications.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Within a 50 km radius of Collie CBD, Western Australia.

Priority Sectors

The program is open to a broad range of sectors, with emphasis on:

• Tourism
• Manufacturing
• Agriculture
• Renewable energy
• Community services

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts: Up to $100,000 per project.
• Categories or streams of funding:
  • Business expansion: Developing new or existing business streams.
  • Feasibility studies: Supporting business case development and research.
  • Skills development: Training programs to enhance workforce capabilities.
  • Events: Funding events with demonstrated economic benefits.
• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: Varies by project, typically 1–2 years.

Grant Amount in Total

The total funding pool for the Collie Futures Small Grants Program is part of the $20 million Collie Futures Fund, with previous rounds allocating up to $2 million for small grants.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: Small-to-medium enterprises, not-for-profits, or incorporated bodies.
• Registered business location: Within 50 km of Collie CBD, Western Australia.
• Minimum/maximum turnover: Not specified.
• Insurance or compliance obligations: Must comply with Australian regulations; insurance may be required for specific projects.
• ABN/GST status: Active ABN required; GST registration if applicable.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Purchasing equipment to expand business operations.
• Conducting feasibility studies or developing business cases.
• Implementing training programs to build workforce skills.
• Hosting events that drive economic or tourism benefits to Collie.

Assessment Process

• Competitive or entitlement-based: Competitive, assessed by the Collie Futures Economic Advisory Group.
• Key evaluation criteria:
  • Economic impact within 50 km of Collie CBD.
  • Alignment with program objectives (job creation, diversification).
  • Strength of co-contribution and project feasibility.

Recent Program Updates

The program paused new applications on July 18, 2025, for a review to streamline the application process. A relaunch is planned for early 2026 with a revised structure to enhance accessibility. Recent rounds funded projects like short-stay accommodation, drone mapping, and cultural tourism, with $380,314 awarded to five recipients in August 2024.

Application Tips

• Contact the South West Development Commission early to discuss project alignment.
• Provide clear evidence of economic benefits to the Collie region.
• Include a cash co-contribution to strengthen your application.
• Prepare detailed operational plans, quotes, and risk management documents.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group for an initial eligibility assessment and project alignment review. Visit www.swdc.wa.gov.au for guidelines and support.