Laneway Greening Sprint
Resident-led planter systems reduce heat and improve biodiversity in dense streets.
Funding: Microgrant
Initiatives & Projects
Real projects led by residents, supported by mentors, and measured for impact.
Browse Initiatives
Filters: Safety · Sustainability · Belonging · Youth · Local Economy
Search hint: use keywords like “crossing”, “garden”, “youth”.
Open Completed Pilots
Scale-ups
Safe-to-School Crossings
Pop-up treatments tested compliance and reduced near-misses during school rush.
Funding: Rapid Pilot
Repair & Share Tool Library
A volunteer-run lending hub saving money and reducing waste for households.
Funding: Scale-up Support
Neighbourhood Welcome Kits
Local packs that connect new residents to clubs, services, and events.
Funding: Microgrant
Youth Skate Safety Workshops
Peer-led sessions improving safety and belonging at local skate parks.
Funding: Program Stream: Youth
Laneway Lighting Audit
Community audit with council to prioritise lighting improvements for safety.
Funding: Pilot
Program Streams
Neighbourhood Grants
Small grants for practical, resident-led ideas that improve streets, parks, and local facilities.
Eligibility: Local resident or group; clear public benefit.
Civic Tech
Tools and data projects that help communities see problems and make better decisions.
Eligibility: Demonstrated community partnership.
Placemaking
Activations and light-touch infrastructure trials to make spaces safer and more welcoming.
Eligibility: Site owner consent and risk plan.
Youth Action
Funding and mentoring for youth-led initiatives that build skills and voice.
Eligibility: Youth leadership with adult sponsor.
Impact by Numbers
40% projects in high-heat suburbs
1,800+ volunteers mobilised
72% projects include youth participation
- Safety: 28%
- Sustainability: 31%
- Belonging: 29%
- Local Economy: 12%
Total funding facilitated to date: modest six-figure sum across 12 municipalities.
- Reduced litter and heat stress in target sites
- Improved pedestrian compliance near schools
- Increased participation from first-time applicants
Selection & Eligibility
- Public benefit that’s clear and measurable
- Feasible budget and timeline
- Inclusive design and engagement
- Risk-managed delivery plan
- Impact potential (40%)
- Feasibility and risk (30%)
- Inclusion and participation (20%)
- Learning and evaluation (10%)
- Simple budget
- Site owner consent (if applicable)
- Basic risk plan
- Community support notes
FAQs
When are decisions made? Most within four weeks.
What can’t we fund? Private benefit, ongoing operational costs, or political campaigning.
Can schools apply? Yes, with student participation and community access.
Project Stories
“Our laneway is cooler and friendlier — we now host weekend cuppas among the planters.”
Neha Patel, Carlton VIC
“The trial crossing showed immediate behaviour change. It helped us make the case for permanent works.”
Samir Alvi, Parent Volunteer, Coburg VIC
Before: Hot, unused laneway; frequent dumping. After: Maintained greenery, less litter, more neighbours saying hello.
Project Support
We hold open office hours for applicants and grantees.
- Wednesdays 12:00–14:00 — Phone or video
- Fridays 10:00–12:00 — In person by appointment
Phone: +61 3 7034 8120
Email: [email protected]
Address: Level 2, 245 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia