Australian High Commission
Fiji

Direct Aid Program

DIRECT AID PROGRAM

The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a flexible small grants program for projects that support the development of local communities. DAP provides direct support to those most in need in the local community, including vulnerable or disadvantaged groups, women, children and youth and people with disabilities.

Important note: DAP program and application requirements can change from year-to-year. Please do not rely on information that does not appear on this website or that you did not receive directly from the High Commission.

 

Who can apply?

DAP is available on a not-for-profit basis to local community groups, NGOs and other entities engaged in development activities in Fiji. 

The Australian High Commission seeks to support projects in various locations across Fiji, and in a range of sectors (e.g. health, education).

 

How much can I apply for?

Applicants can apply for a maximum of AUD60,000 (around FJD $89,000) over the life of the project. Projects can run for up two years, but ideally should be delivered within 6 months of receiving funding. Projects requiring funding over AUD60,000 may be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

 

What activities are eligible for DAP Support?

DAP activities should achieve practical and tangible outcomes with high development impact. We will favourably consider projects:

  • that effectively integrate gender equality and disability inclusion considerations
  • that have been endorsed by local community organisations, authorities and/or government ministries.
  • where applicants and their communities make a contribution in labour, materials, transport or cash;
  • that are achievable and have sustainable outcomes, and do not require recurring costs (for example, for maintenance and replacement);
  • that consider risks and develop suitable risk management strategies

We will generally NOT fund the following:

  • cash grant programs or micro-credit schemes or projects that involve the return of money
  • commercial ventures
  • purchase of major assets, e.g. vehicles, boats
  • Australian or overseas study tours
  • international travel
  • sponsorship of major sporting tournaments or cultural displays that do not have a clear developmental benefit
  • staff salaries
  • routine, recurring running costs and administrative expenses including office rental and utility costs, spare parts, routine maintenance
  • freight of goods, except where the applicant demonstrates that it is not possible to source the same items locally

 

Expectations for accountability, transparency and reporting

We require a high degree of transparency and accountability in all projects. Applications must demonstrate that the risk of wastage, administration costs and other costs not delivering direct benefit to the target community will be minimised.  

Should your project be successful, you will be required to:

  • sign a contract specifying the terms and conditions of the grant
  • keep full financial records of all expenditure, including receipts
  • submit a progress report within six months of receiving your funding
  • submit a final report at the project’s completion
  • allow and facilitate a visit by Australian High Commission representatives to the project site.

APPLICATION PROCESS

When can I apply?

The DAP will be open from Monday 16 September to Sunday 20 October

How will applications be assessed?

After the submission deadline, the DAP Committee will assess the applications against the following criteria:

  • The overall development impact of the project
  • Feasibility and sustainability of the project
  • Identification and management of risks
  • Integration of gender equality, disability and other social inclusion considerations.

During this process, we may ask the applicant for more information.

 

How can I apply?

All applications for the 2024-25 DAP will be submitted through Smartygrants, our online grants management system. Smartygrants operates on a web-based platform and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. Click on this link to commence your application (available from Monday 16 September).

 

What do I do if I need help?

If you have any questions while completing your application, please contact us via email at [email protected]. Make sure to include your application number in your email subject.