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 Australian Government grants policy framework applies to all non-corporate Commonwealth entities (entities) subject to the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act).
The Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines 2017 (CGRGs) establish the Commonwealth grants policy framework. The CGRGs contain the key legislative and policy requirements, and explain the better practice principles of grants administration.
The CGRGs apply to grants administration performed by ministers, accountable authorities, officials and third parties who undertake grants administration on behalf of the Commonwealth. It is important to note that it is the responsibility of officials to advise ministers of the requirements of the CGRGs.