New focus for bigger than ever Community Investment Program
-
Corporate
-
Community
- Published: 15 July 2026
Southern Ports is set to take its Community Investment Program to a new level after delivering a record-breaking level of funding and applications over the past year.
More than 130 recipients shared in $366,000 of grants during 2025-26 program, but more than $400,000 is expected to be given away for the first time in the program’s history over the coming 12 months.
As a new round of applications opened this week, Southern Ports Chief Executive Officer Keith Wilks said growing the Community Investment Program was an expansion of support for South West, Great Southern and Goldfields-Esperance initiatives.
“We love that the program is so well supported and have had record applications come through so it’s great that we’ve been able to boost funding to make a bigger impact in our regions,” Mr Wilks said.
“We’re also making the program more accessible by clearly outlining our funding pillars – environment, education and community – so groups know where applications fit.
“At its core, the program still aims to be an effective investment into our regions which promotes capacity building, connected communities and celebrating our natural assets.”
A new digital, online application platform has also been introduced to allow for streamlined application and assessment processes.
It comes after there was more than 330 applications received across the 2025-26 program’s three rounds, an increase of 38 per cent over the prior year.
“We receive regular positive feedback about how easy the program has been to apply for, by digitising applications we’re making make it even easier for applicants,” Mr Wilks said.
“It will also make it easier for our assessment panels in each region, helping us to invest in projects and initiatives that have a positive impact in our communities.
“As always, our team will be ready to assist applicants with questions relating to the program and those related to the new platform.”
The first round of the 2026-27 Community Investment Program is open to applicants until Friday 14 August.