Rural and Remote Playgroup Grants Program

Play Matters > Rural and Remote Playgroups Grant Program

To kickstart Term Two, we are partnering with Educationall to support playgroups in rural and remote locations through a range of grants.

Rural and Remote Playgroup Grants Program

Play Matters Australia is committed to supporting playgroups in rural and remote communities. In 2025 we are providing financial assistance through a Playgroup Grants program. These grants aim to enhance playgroup facilities, resources, and experiences for families, fostering inclusive and engaging environments for children and caregivers.

Grant Types

Small Grants

Value: Up to $1000 in the form of an EducationAll voucher.

Eligibility: Open to all playgroups in defined rural and remote locations regardless of whether they are affiliated with Play Matters Australia.

Larger Grants

Value: $1000 - $5000 in cash.

Eligibility: Exclusively for existing Play Matters Affiliated groups. Funds may be used for facility upgrades or improvements to better support playgroup activities in defined rural and remote locations.

Who can apply?
Grants are available to playgroups located in areas classified as Moderately Accessible (MA), Remote (R), and Very Remote (VR) in the Accessibility/Remoteness Index of Australia. View the list here.

Reporting
A short acquittal report will be required from all groups and organisations.

When do applications close?

Grant applications close Sunday, 27 April 2025.

If you would like to apply for a grant, click on the link below!

Click here to apply for a grant!

Grant Program FAQs

What can I purchase with an EducationAll voucher?

Grant recipients can purchase any products available on the EducationAll website.

What is the acquittal or grant report process?

Play Matters Australia will require all successful applicants to complete a short report and attach photos of the products they purchased from EducationAll. A quote for larger grant works is to be attached to the application, with the final acquittal to be completed by 31 August 2025.

What questions are in the grant application?

The grant applications are completed by submitting a form. We will require playgroup information, and you will need to tell us what you would spend the money on, and why you should receive the grant.

Who will review applications?

Play Matters Australia will appoint a panel, comprised of play experts to review and evaluate applications.

I’m not affiliated, but if I affiliate can I apply?

Non-affiliated groups are eligible to apply for small grants.

To apply for a large grant, you must be affiliated with Play Matters Australia before the application closing date.

What happens if my applications is successful?

Successful applicants will be notified via email. EducationAll will send recipients vouchers to spend.

What happens if my application is unsuccessful?

Unfortunately, not everyone’s application will be successful. The review panel will receive deidentified applications and judge these using a criteria. An unsuccessful application will not prevent groups from applying for future grants. Affiliation with Play Matters Australia has a wide range of benefits groups and organisations can take advantage of to ensure they are supported.

How is remoteness determined?

Play Matters Australia is using ARIA classifications to determine remoteness. The following ARIA classes were selected for these grants: Moderately Accessible (MA), Remote (R), and Very Remote (VR)

My question isn't answered here...

If you have a specific question about the grants program, click here to contact us. Our team will aim to get back to you as soon as possible.

What are the Terms and Conditions?

The Terms and Conditions for this grants program can be viewed here