Australian Government Grants Policy Framework
Grants are widely used to achieve government policy objectives, involving the payment of billions of dollars each year to the non-government sector. Grants provide significant benefits to many Australians, through the Government working in partnership with individuals and organisations to deliver outcomes for the Australian public.
The Commonwealth grants policy framework applies to all departments and agencies (agencies) subject to the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 (FMA Act). The following link provides information on agencies subject to the FMA Act.
Commonwealth Grant Guidelines
The Commonwealth Grant Guidelines (CGGs) establish the Commonwealth grants policy framework. They contain the key legislative and policy requirements, and explain the better practice principles of grants administration. Agencies then determine their own grants administration practices in accordance with the CGGs.
The CGGs apply to grants administration performed by Ministers, Chief Executives, agency staff and organisations who undertake grants administration on behalf of an agency. It is important to note that it is the responsibility of agency staff to advise Ministers of the requirements of the CGGs.
The second edition of the CGGs takes effect from 1 June 2013. Agency staff may adopt some or all of the requirements in the updated CGGs prior to 1 June 2013.
- Commonwealth Grant Guidelines (First Edition, valid until 1 June 2013)
- Commonwealth Grant Guidelines (Second Edition, June 2013)
The following links set out key guidance and information that agency staff should be aware of when undertaking grants administration.
- Commonwealth Grant Guidelines Fact Sheets
- Developing Guidelines For Granting Activities
- Not-for-profit Sector Reforms
- Additional guidance
Information Sessions
The Department of Finance and Deregulation will be providing information sessions on the updated CGGs for a range of stakeholders. The first session will be held at the John Gorton Building on 30 May 2013. Contact the Grants Policy Team for more information.
Contact for information on this page: grants@finance.gov.au