The are-able Foundation is a community-focused fund established in 2004 to support organisations that improve access and opportunities for people living with a disability or disadvantage. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed more than $1.6 million to businesses and community organisations throughout Victoria. Annually, the Foundation provides up to $100,000 in grants, with applicants eligible to apply for up to $5,000 each.
As a community-based not-for-profit organisation, are-able channels funding back into regional communities through the are-able Foundation and specialist programs, reinforcing its commitment to working with local organisations to assist those facing barriers due to disability or disadvantage.
Purpose
The are-able Foundation’s purpose is to reduce barriers and promote inclusiveness for people living with a disability or disadvantage, enabling them to participate fully in community life. It provides assistance to community organisations, supporting initiatives that help individuals develop skills, build connections, and grow within their communities.
Values
The Foundation operates in alignment with are-able’s core values:
Integrity: Acting with honesty, trust, and transparency at all times, responding without bias and following through on commitments with accountability.
Respect: Recognising diversity and valuing every person’s uniqueness and contributions.
Empathy: Taking into account differing perspectives and experiences with understanding and compassion.
Innovation: Continuously seeking better ways to tackle challenges, embracing innovation in all its forms.
2025 Opening and Closing Dates
View the opening and closing dates here.
Terms and Conditions
Before applying for the are-able Foundation Community Grant, please review the Terms and Conditions to ensure compliance with all requirements. These guidelines outline the responsibilities of successful applicants and the conditions for funding allocation.
Read the full Terms and Conditions here.
Grant Eligibility
To be eligible for an are-able Foundation Community Grant, applicants must represent a small to medium not-for-profit organisation (under $1,000,000 annual turnover) and request funding of $5,000 or less. The proposed project must be located within an are-able geographical area, directly benefit people experiencing disability or disadvantage, and align with are-able’s mission and values. Applicants must meet additional criteria, such as providing proof of incorporation, an ABN or ACN, and ensuring the project can be implemented within two months if successful. Note: events are not eligible for grants but may qualify for sponsorship by contacting marketing@areable.org.au.
View the full Grant Eligibility criteria here.
2024 Grant Recipients
Congratulations to the organisations awarded a 2024 are-able Foundation Community Grant:
- Ballarat
- Women’s Shed Ballarat
- Ballarat Bulldogs All Abilities Football Netball Club
- Bendigo
- The Sisterhood Project
- Rochester Business Network
- Castlemaine Community House
- Brisbane
- Trek2Health
- Nature Freedom
- Suited to Success
- Valley District Cricket Club All Abilities Cricket Program
- Colac
- Progressing Cobden Inc
- Riding for the Disabled
- Geelong
- Wallington Cricket Club
- Hamilton
- The Australian Pedal Car Grand Prix Inc
- Hamilton Community House Inc.
- Mildura
- Mildura Community House Inc
- Red Cliffs Community Resource Centre Inc
- Mallee Sports Assembly
- Shepparton
- Wodonga Senior Secondary College – Shepparton Flexible Learning Centre
- Goulburn Valley Sports Assembly INC
- Warrnambool
- Kiwanis Club of Warrnambool
- South West LLEN
- Find Your Voice Collective Inc
Commitment to Community
are-able is proud to be part of the communities it serves, supporting initiatives that empower individuals, break down barriers, and foster inclusiveness. Through the are-able Foundation, we continue to invest in projects that promote opportunity, skill-building, and growth for those living with disability or disadvantage.