Navigating the landscape of grants and funding in Australia can feel overwhelming. Whether you are a startup looking for capital, an established business seeking to expand, or a not-for-profit organization (NFP) trying to secure operational funding, knowing where to look is half the battle.
As we move through 2026, the funding environment in Australia continues to evolve. Government priorities are shifting towards renewable energy, social impact, and digital transformation.
To help you get started, we have compiled a comprehensive list of funding agencies in Australia, covering government bodies, business grants, and the top NGOs that distribute funds.
Also check: Grants for Nonprofits: How to Get Free Funding in 2026
Top NGOs in Australia (Funding & Service Providers)
Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) in Australia play a dual role: they provide essential services, and many also act as funding conduits or partners for smaller community groups. Below is a list of the top NGOs in Australia by revenue, reach, and impact.
1. The Buffett Grants
One of Australia’s most recognized charities, The Buffett Grants focuses on education, business, agriculture, and not for profit organisations.
While they primarily deliver services, they also partner with corporate donors to fund community initiatives.
Start your application for Buffett Grants here
2. World Vision Australia
As one of the largest aid agencies in Australia, World Vision handles significant humanitarian funding. They often subcontract to smaller Australian NGOs for international development projects funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
3. The Salvation Army Australia
A massive organization covering disaster relief, homelessness, and addiction services. They manage large volumes of government funding and distribute support to local community partners.
4. St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies)
Operating in every state, Vinnies is a top-tier not-for-profit focused on poverty alleviation. They are a key partner for state governments in housing and emergency relief.
5. Red Cross Australia
A leading aid agency in Australia, the Red Cross manages funds for disaster response, migration support, and blood donation services. They are often a primary recipient of federal humanitarian grants.
6. Lifeline Australia
Focused on mental health and suicide prevention, Lifeline receives substantial government and corporate funding to support its network of crisis centers across the country.
7. Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)
Critical for rural and remote Australia, the RFDS is a top 10 not-for-profit organization in Australia by public donations and government grants.
Government Funding Agencies in Australia
The largest source of grants in Australia is the government. Here are the key agencies distributing funds in 2026:
- Services Australia (Community Grants Hub): The central hub for administering grants on behalf of multiple government departments, particularly for social services and health.
- Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA): A prime source of funding for businesses and researchers working in solar, wind, battery storage, and hydrogen.
- Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC): Specializes in financing (debt and equity) for clean energy projects rather than traditional grants.
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC): The primary funding body for medical research and public health initiatives.
- Australian Research Council (ARC): Funds university-led research that benefits the broader Australian community and industry.
- State Government Agencies: Each state has its own economic development agency (e.g., Investment NSW, Study Melbourne, Queensland Government’s Department of State Development) that offers localized business grants and COVID-19 recovery funds.
List of Not-for-Profit Organisations Australia (National Scope)
If you are looking for partners, advocacy groups, or large NFPs that distribute sub-grants, this list of not-for-profit organisations in Australia with a national footprint is essential:
- Mission Australia: Focuses on housing, employment, and mental health.
- Anglicare Australia: A network of local community organizations providing social services.
- UnitingCare Australia: The community services arm of the Uniting Church, one of the largest networks of care in the country.
- CARE Australia: An international aid agency focusing on poverty and women’s rights.
- Plan International Australia: Focuses on child rights and gender equality, often managing large DFAT-funded programs.
List of Funding Organization in Australia (2020 vs. 2026)
If you are searching for historical data, specifically a list of funding organizations in Australia 2020, you will notice significant changes by 2026.
- 2020 Context: Funding was heavily dominated by COVID-19 response grants (JobKeeper, Business Support Payments, and crisis relief for NFPs).
- 2026 Context: While disaster recovery (floods and bushfires) remains important, the focus has shifted to:
- Social Impact Investing: Many agencies now prefer outcome-based funding rather than upfront grants.
- Net Zero Transition: Funding for businesses to reduce carbon footprints has skyrocketed.
- Digital Inclusion: Grants for bridging the digital divide in remote areas are now standard.
List of Charities in Australia (By Sector)
For those seeking specific philanthropic funding or looking to apply for charitable status, here is a list of charities in Australia categorized by their niche:
| Sector | Example Charities |
| Medical Research | The Garvan Institute, Heart Foundation, Cancer Council Australia |
| Environment | Australian Conservation Foundation, WWF-Australia, Bush Heritage Australia |
| Animals | RSPCA Australia, WIRES (wildlife rescue) |
| International Aid | Oxfam Australia, Save the Children Australia |
How Many NGOs Are There in Australia?
A common question we receive is: How many NGOs are there in Australia?
According to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), as of 2026, there are approximately 60,000 registered charities in Australia.
However, if you include unincorporated associations and social enterprises that do not have charity status, the total number of NGOs and not-for-profits exceeds 600,000. This makes the sector a massive contributor to the economy, employing over 1.4 million Australians.
List of Not for Profit Organisations Melbourne
Victoria, and specifically Melbourne, is a hub for the not-for-profit sector. If you are looking for a localized list of not for profit organisations Melbourne-based, these are key players:
- The Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS): The peak body for the social and community sector in Victoria.
- Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation: One of Melbourne’s oldest and largest philanthropic foundations, providing grants to local NFPs.
- FareShare: A Melbourne-based charity that rescues food and cooks meals for vulnerable Victorians.
- Melbourne City Mission: A major provider of homelessness and youth services in the Melbourne metro area.
- Very Special Kids: A Melbourne-based NFP supporting children with life-limiting conditions.
How to Secure Funding in Australia in 2026
Securing a grant in 2026 requires more than just filling out a form. Here are three tips for success:
- Align with Government Priorities: Whether you are a business or an NGO, ensure your project aligns with the current federal and state strategies (e.g., the “Future Made in Australia” plan or state-level climate targets).
- Partner with Established NGOs: Smaller organizations often find success by partnering with a top-tier NGO (like those listed above) to apply for government tenders under the “consortium” model.
- Use Grant Search Platforms: Don’t rely on word of mouth. Use platforms like GrantConnect (the official Australian government grants information system) and SmartyGrants to find live opportunities.
Also check: How To Apply For Grants In Australia – Private And Government Funding In 2026
Final Thoughts
Whether you are looking for a list of funding agencies in Australia for a new business venture or seeking partners among the top NGOs in Australia, the ecosystem is rich with opportunity. By understanding the difference between government grants, philanthropic foundations, and large NFPs, you can tailor your approach to suit the right funding body.
Remember to keep an eye on the ACNC register for the most up-to-date list of not-for-profit organisations Australia has to offer, and always check eligibility criteria carefully before applying.
Also check: Small Business Grants Ontario 2026
