$770,000 in community grants helping those in need: Applications Open for IMB Bank Community Foundation until 14 June 2026

The IMB Bank Community Foundation is calling for charities and community organisations to apply for a share in $770,000 in funding as Australia's cost-of-living crisis continues to put pressure on vulnerable people and the vital services that support them.

With research showing 1 in 3 people are skipping meals, almost 3 million Australians facing domestic and family violence—especially during financial stress—and 1 in 4 feel lonely, local solutions and support is urgently needed.*

For over 26 years, the IMB Bank Community Foundation has funded more than 1,100 projects and this year it will support projects across six key themes: social, environmental, cultural, educational, community development, and community connection.

Robert Ryan, IMB Bank Chief Executive, said, “Across the regions where IMB operates, the IMB Bank Community Foundation supports organisations that help foster culture, education and community connection, and who are there for people who are doing it tough. We’re proud to support the many local heroes playing a part in delivering these services.”

“While our communities continue to be remarkably resilient in the face of cost-of-living pressures and global uncertainty, we know many are facing challenges like loneliness, food insecurity and family violence, and we are committed to making a contribution to the incredible organisations who are there to help them through tough times,” Mr Ryan added.

Last year the IMB Bank Community Foundation received a record number of applications and funded 58 not-for-profit organisations.

Jann Gardner, IMB Bank Community Foundation Chair, emphasised the Foundation's reputation in providing support. “Our Foundation is focused on providing much-needed funding to local community organisations and initiatives that deliver tangible, measurable and enduring impacts in the communities they serve.”

“These include organisations that feed families, shelter those fleeing violence, support the isolated and elderly, and connect disadvantaged young people to opportunity. They deserve sustained support,” added Ms Gardner.

Applying for a grant is simple and not-for-profit organisations throughout the Illawarra, Greater Sydney, NSW South Coast, ACT, Newcastle, and Melbourne are encouraged to apply.

Applications for 2026 are now open and close on 15 June 2026. Not-for-profit community organisations should visit www.imb.com.au/community to find out if their project is eligible and to apply online.

_{*Source : Food Bank Hunger Project NSW and ACT 2026 here; Australian Institute of Health and Welfare here ; Relationships Australia ‘Relationships Indicator Survey’ 2026 here}