The Trustee For Australian Communities Foundation Extension Fund

Giving Philosophy

ACF believes in 'the power of giving together' - pooling resources from multiple funders to achieve greater impact than isolated giving. They focus on systemic change through civil society partners working on policy and regulation reform, not just incremental charitable support. Their approach includes 'wraparound support' beyond funding, such as mentoring and connections between grant partners. They identify priority issues through collaboration with community and civil society experts, leverage funding through co-funding arrangements, and measure success by policy reforms and social infrastructure created rather than output volumes alone.

Tips for Applicants

ACF prioritizes systemic change over charitable relief - they want evidence your work addresses root causes of inequality, environmental harm, or democratic deficits. Their Impact Fund uses a co-funding model where they pool with other donors, so alignment with their four impact areas (Inequality, Environment, First Nations Self-Determination, Democracy) is essential. They value 'wraparound support' recipients who can leverage connections with other grant partners; demonstrate how your work connects to broader movements or policy reform. For First Nations organizations, their First Nations Advisory Group oversees grants in the Self-Determination area. Large grants (~$100k) go to collaborative campaigns with multiple partners; smaller agile grants are also available for time-sensitive opportunities. Contact Head of Impact Anna Demant directly to discuss fit before applying.

Notable Grants

• $365,000 to Dhadjowa Foundation (Indigenous)
• $228,000+ to Uluru Dialogue/Indigenous Law Centre UNSW
• $388,000+ to Yes23/Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition
• $366,000+ to Rapid Response Referendum Grants Pool
• $226,000+ to Passing the Message Stick (Australian Progress + GetUp)
• $136,000 to Everybody's Home/Council to Homeless Persons
• $112,000 to Economic Media Centre
• $100,000 to 350.org Australia (Jobs, Climate, Justice campaign)
• $100,000 to Australian Democracy Network + Human Rights Law Centre
• $100,000 to Equality Australia (LGBTIQ+ rights)
• $100,000 to Climate Media Centre + 350.org Australia

Financial History (7 years)