Applications are now open for the 2025 ANZ Seeds of Renewal program, which offers grants of up to $15,000 to support not-for-profit and community groups across remote, rural, and regional Australia. The program is a collaboration between ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) aimed at fostering sustainable rural communities.
Since its launch in 2002, the program has allocated over $6 million to more than 900 projects. In the previous year, $250,000 was distributed among 22 community groups. These funds supported initiatives such as a free laundry facility for homeless individuals in Orange and digital literacy programs for women in the Kimberley region.
For 2025, the funding pool remains at $250,000. Projects must align with one of four key areas: financial wellbeing, housing access, environmental sustainability, or assisting local communities to thrive.
The Growing Abundance project in Castlemaine received $15,000 in 2023 to help farmers and gardeners distribute excess produce. This initiative evolved into an ongoing food security project under Castlemaine Community House (CCH). CCH Executive Officer Mahira Sobral stated that "the Seeds of Renewal program allowed for a grassroots initiative to transform into a cornerstone of our Community House."
ANZ Head of Agribusiness Mark Bennett emphasized the program's role in supporting regional Australia's strength and sustainability. "ANZ is proud to back initiatives that are practical, locally driven, and deeply impactful," he said.
FRRR Head of Partnerships Jillian Kirwan-Lee highlighted the importance of not-for-profits in rural areas: "Our partnership with ANZ means that we are able to empower local groups...to enhance the liveability...of their communities."
Applications close on July 31st at 5 pm AEST. A Grantseeker Webinar will be held on July 8th from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm AEST.