Bring your Creative Vision to Life
The Creative Access Program supports local groups, artists and organisations to activate Council venues with creative, inclusive and community-driven programs. Through in-kind venue access and collaborative support, we're here to help you showcase Greater Dandenong's cultural richness and build meaningful program that strengthen our city's creative life.
This is more than just affordable space — it's about creating real Program that deliver shared benefits for our community. Whether you're starting something new or expanding an existing program, we're looking for projects that make a positive impact.
2026 program priorities
This year, we're especially interested in projects that engage with:
- Children and families
- Youth participation
- All abilities creative arts
- Migrant and refugee community engagement, especially by and for our diverse communities
- First Nations First
Who should apply?
We welcome applications from community groups, not-for-profit organisations, and individuals who:
- Have a program aligned with Council priorities (arts, heritage and culture, community inclusion, sustainability, and wellbeing)
- Are seeking in-kind support such as space, mentoring, or promotional assistance
- Meet our eligibility criteria (see Frequently Asked Questions below)
Support that you will receive
- In-kind use of Council venues for activities including rehearsals, exhibitions, workshops, or performances
- Practical support from Council Officers including advice, networking opportunities, and coordination assistance
- Marketing promotion through Council channels (may include website, social media and enewsletters)
- Collaborative Program to help develop sustainable and impactful community programs
How to apply
Expressions of Interest are now open.
Applications close: Monday 23 March, 5pm
Projects can run: April to October 2026
Read Creative Access Program Guidelines 119KB
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between this program and a regular venue hire?
Creative Access Program is designed for collaborative projects that create shared community benefits.
If you're simply looking for subsidised space without a partnership component, you should apply for a fee subsidy or waiver through our Community Facilities Access and Use Policy instead.
For more information on how to do this please contact our bookings team on 03 8571 1000 or council@cgd.vic.gov.au
Who is eligible to apply?
Individuals must live or work in South East Melbourne and have a programmatic outcome.
Groups and organisations must be not-for-profit or incorporated, and satisfy at least two of the following:
- Be based in the City of Greater Dandenong
- Hold project activities within Greater Dandenong
- Deliver clear benefits to the Greater Dandenong community
- Hold current public liability insurance*
All applicants must demonstrate they'll work in partnership with Council to deliver shared community benefits.
*if the group or organisation does not hold public liability insurance they may be asked to obtain appropriate coverage.
Who can't apply?
The program is not available to:
- City of Greater Dandenong staff members
- Private, profit-making organisations
- Educational institutions and government departments (unless partnering with an artist or community group and open to the community)
- Projects not open to the public or without a local program outcome
- Groups with unsatisfactorily acquitted previous grants or outstanding debts
- Political or religious groups promoting core beliefs
- Fundraising activities
- Projects that have already received Council funding for the same activity
What venues are available?
- Walker St Gallery an Art Centre - Black Box Theatre
- Drum Theatre - Rehearsal Room and Function rooms (Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm)
- The Castle - Single space with stage (no technical equipment)
- Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens - Various heritage spaces and gardens (Wednesday-Thursday 10am-2pm)
- Community hubs and facilities
All spaces are subject to existing bookings and availability.
What's the application process?
Stage One - Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI outlining your proposed project via the online form. All EOIs are assessed by a panel of Council officers.
Stage Two - Detailed Proposal
Successful Stage One applicants will be invited to submit a comprehensive proposal through SmartyGrants, which will also be assessed by a panel.
How long can my project run for?
Projects can be short-term or run for up to 12 months. For this round, projects can occur or start between April and October 2026.
Does the program cover staffing and equipment?
Staffing and technical support are not automatically included. If you need these, you must outline how costs will be covered in your application. Additional technical equipment may incur fees.
How will tickets be sold for my event?
All tickets for events held at City of Greater Dandenong venues must be sold through our Bookable Events Box Office Service. A per-ticket service fee may apply.
Will Council help promote my program?
Yes! Council will promote supported programs through its channels including our website, social media, and newsletters. However, the program doesn't cover your own marketing expenses. We encourage you to promote your activities independently and tag Council for cross-promotion opportunities.
Can I apply if I've already received other Council funding?
No, applications must not overlap with other venue subsidies or grant payments to offset venue hire costs for the same project.
What do I need to include in my application?
For Stage One, you'll need to outline your proposed project using the online form.
If successful, you will be invited to Stage Two, whichrequires:
- A budget showing maximum hours requested, venue hire value (community rate), other expenses, project income, and other support
- Supporting materials (weblinks, images, documents) demonstrating your track record, program quality, Program/collaborations, and safety compliance (e.g., working with children checks, risk assessments)
How will applications be assessed?
Stage One
The EOIs are reviewed and assessed based on the criteria outlined in the section on Eligibility criteria.
Eligible applicants will the progress to Stage Two.
Stage Two
Stage Two applications are assessed on:
- Community participation (20%)
- Community stakeholder relationships development (20%)
- Community connection and alignment with Council programming priorities (20%)
- Activation of Council facilities 15%)
- Program quality (15%)
- Safety compliance (10%)
What are my obligations if successful?
You'll need to:
Sign a grant agreement and adhere to terms and conditions
Provide all required insurance
Acknowledge City of Greater Dandenong support on all promotional materials
Provide progress reports (depending on partnership length)
Submit a final report and acquittal within four weeks of completion
Can I get help with my application?
Absolutely. We strongly encourage you to discuss your proposal with Council officers before applying. Contact us at arts@cgd.vic.gov.au for program-related questions.
For SmartyGrants technical support, email service@smartygrants.com.au.
Application tip: Create your answers in a Word document first, then cut and paste into the application fields to avoid losing data and help with word count.
Ready to apply?
Applications close: 5pm on Monday 23 March.
Start your Expression of Interest
For more information, email arts@cgd.vic.gov.au.