What’s happening?
Applications are now open for Dementia Australia’s 2025 Diversity Small Grant program. Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and culturally and linguistically diverse organisations or groups can apply for up to $30,000. Funding will back projects that build better awareness and understanding of dementia in their own communities. Applications opened Monday 21 July 2025 and close at 5 pm AEST Wednesday 13 August 2025.
Why it matters?
Many Australians are touched by dementia yet some communities face bigger challenges in getting the right information and support. Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said this program is part of a clear promise.
“Dementia Australia’s 2025 Diversity Small Grant program is part of our commitment to facilitating equity of access to dementia information and support,” Professor Buchanan said.
Dementia rates are 3 to 5 times higher for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. At least 28 per cent of people living with dementia in Australia were born in a non‑English speaking country.
Local Impact
Groups in Queensland can use this funding to run events or projects that suit their own culture and way of sharing knowledge. Along with the grant, successful applicants will receive a dementia education session for staff or committee members. This will help leaders talk openly about dementia and guide others in their communities.
By the numbers
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More than 200 applications came in for the 2024 round.
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$320,000 was shared among 11 organisations in the first year.
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Over 433,300 Australians live with dementia, with more than 1.7 million involved in their care.
Zoom In
Past projects show how creative these grants can be. Philippine Educational Theatre Artists of Western Australia used their funding to stage The Moon and the Bakunawa.
“In our play The Moon and the Bakunawa, I wanted to pay tribute to my mother who lived with vascular dementia,” said Director Mr Benito Chan.
“I wrote this play to help raise awareness of dementia and it was funded by a Dementia Australia Diversity Small Grant awarded last year. The grant helped us put on shows in both Perth and Sydney and it was a creative way to try and build greater understanding of dementia within our community.”
Zoom Out
Dementia Australia provides trusted information and services and pushes for better support across the country. The Diversity Small Grant program is funded by the Australian Federal Government and is part of national efforts to reach every community.
What to look for next?
Applications close Wednesday 13 August 2025. Those selected will sign contracts by Thursday 9 October 2025. All projects must finish by Friday 12 June 2026. To apply, click HERE or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
