Real Innovation Fund Grant Opportunity - Workforce Australia - Local Jobs - Illawarra South Coast

 

Real Innovation Fund Grant Opportunity Grants are now open for the REAL Innovation Fund, an initiative that will support the delivery of small-scale, community-led, innovative projects that build pathways to stable and culturally safe employment opportunities for First Nations people who have had contact with the justice system. Projects can be designed to support both First Nations people currently in the justice system and those previously engaged in the justice system in the last 2 years. Initiatives will aim to address attitudinal and other systemic barriers that impact opportunities for individuals to transition into employment. The projects can build on pre-existing programs/initiatives or test new approaches.  Eligible organisations are invited to apply for funding under the REAL Innovation Fund, with the competitive grants process remaining open until 2 March 2026.   Funding will be allocated through a two-stage application process:   Stage One – Expression of Interest (EOI) Applicants are required to submit an EOI outlining the key elements of their proposed project. The EOI serves as a concise pitch that enables the department to assess alignment with the objectives and intent of the REAL Innovation Fund. Stage Two – Full Grant Application Organisations shortlisted through Stage One will be invited to submit a full grant application. This stage provides the opportunity to expand on the proposal presented in the EOI and supply the detailed information required for final assessment. Applications will only be accepted from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Orgs and joint consortia that are led by First Nations organisations. Interested organisations are invited to apply for the funding via GrantConnect by 9.00pm (AEDT) on Monday 2 March 2026.   For further information For more information, please visit the DEWR website, or contact REALInnovationFund@dewr.gov.au.