What we do
Southside Community Foundation (SCF) believes that lasting change comes from within the community — when people come together to give, act, and care for one another. We build long-term relationships and partnerships by connecting those who want to give with those already making a difference.
Our strength lies in knowing Southside — its people, challenges, and potential. With deep local insight and trusted networks, we seek to strengthen the connective tissue of the community, building bridges through community conversations and ensuring resources are directed where they’re needed most, for the greatest impact.
At SCF, we don’t just support community — we are from the community. And together, we’re working to build a future that’s fairer, stronger, and led by those who know it best.
Initial granting approach
Southside Community Foundation seeks to build our community’s power, vision and collective voice, facilitating support for local solutions to local problems.
In our establishment phase, we are offering a two-year pilot program consisting of our 2025 ‘Grants for Conversation’ and our current grant round ‘Grants for Collaboration’.
Grants for Conversation brought together agencies and stakeholders in key areas identified in our 2024 Vital Signs report to understand each other's work, explore opportunities to collaborate, and build a shared vision for the future of Southside.
Grants for Collaboration came out of this intial engagement and is designed to support community-driven initiatives that enhance collaboration, organisational sustainability, creative ideas and social connection.
Grants for Collaboration is open until Friday 10 July 2026.
You do not need to have participated in Grants for Conversation to be eligible for this current grant round. Find out more on our grants page.
Our areas of focus
Using our 2024 Vital Signs report we've identified six key areas where community support can make a meaningful difference.
These are not just issues — they’re people’s lives. And through targeted support, partnerships, and community-led solutions, we’re working to create a Southside where everyone can feel secure, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Arts and culture
Environment and climate change
Food security
First Nations communities
Housing and homelessness
Mental health and wellbeing