Hume City Council will tighten and expand the Hume Charitable Fund, aiming to push more donations to vulnerable residents and make the process more transparent.
Key changes, to start in 2027, include:
- A formal committee to assess applications
- Active promotion to boost awareness among applicants and donors
- An annual council contribution to grow the pool
Set up in 2004, the fund has distributed about $200,000 from residents, businesses and service clubs. Council says awareness and selection processes need strengthening to ensure money reaches highest-need cases.
Ahead of the new model, council is calling for applications now from Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) organisations via its grants portal. Submissions will go to the 22 June 2026 council meeting.
Apply via the Expression of Interest form on council’s grants database. Donors are encouraged to contribute as the fund’s profile and governance are upgraded.