Pictured: Salvation Army Riverside (Gawler East) Play Café
Community organisations across South Australia are being encouraged to apply for a fresh round of funding, with up to $1 million available through the State Government’s Social Impact Grants program.
Designed to support inclusion, connection, and wellbeing, the grants will help local groups deliver projects, upgrade facilities, and provide vital services to communities across the state.
Announced by Human Services Minister Katrine Hildyard, the program offers two funding tiers, grants of up to $10,000 for equipment and resources, and up to $30,000 for infrastructure improvements and program delivery.
Priority will be given to initiatives supporting people and communities facing socio-economic disadvantage and other complex challenges.
“Behind every strong community are local people and local organisations working really hard, with compassion and commitment, to bring people together, open doors and offer support when it matters most. These grants help make sure that vital work can continue and grow,” Minister Hildyard said.
The Social Impact Grants have already delivered meaningful outcomes across South Australia, with a wide range of organisations benefiting in Round One.
In metropolitan Adelaide, The Salvation Army Riverside in Gawler East received more than $20,000 to transform its Play Café into a larger, more welcoming space for local families. The upgrade has increased capacity from 16 to 40 people, creating an even stronger community hub.
“The space has really been transformed through this funding, and our community has really benefited. The grant has been so useful and we are very thankful. Just this morning I met a mother to talk about their Aboriginal foster group, and we could use the play cafe to have our meeting,” said Josh Sanders, Ministry Team Leader at Salvation Army Riverside Gawler.
Other metro recipients included Orange Basket Community Services, Christie Downs Community House, and the Playford Women’s Shed, each delivering programs that support disability inclusion, domestic violence recovery, and practical skills development.
Regional South Australia has also seen significant benefits. Grants have helped improve accessibility at Glencoe Public Hall, supported the ongoing work of Naracoorte District Men’s Shed, and funded Umeewarra Aboriginal Media Association’s Way to Play program for families in the Iron Triangle.
By backing grassroots organisations, the program aims to reduce isolation, strengthen connections, and improve social and emotional wellbeing right across the state.
“We know that strong communities are built by dedicated local people and groups empowering local people to connect and delivering practical support where it’s needed most. I encourage eligible organisations to apply and take this opportunity to turn great local ideas into real outcomes for South Australians. Thanks to all who make a difference in communities every day. I am so pleased that these grants will help you to continue to do so,” Minister Hildyard said.
Applications for Round Two of the 2025-26 Social Impact Grants are open now and close on June 11th, 2026.
For community groups with a great idea and a passion for making a difference, this could be the perfect opportunity to turn local vision into real impact.
For more information, click here.
