Grantus Blog - From Wins to Lessons. Photograph: Diego Fedele/AAP

From Wins to Lessons: What Shapes Regional Funding Success

Winning $11.3 million for the City of Greater Bendigo and $2 million for Pyrenees Shire Council through the Housing Support Program has been an encouraging start to our year. Yet, the disappointment of missing out on funding for Yarriambiack Shire Council and Central Goldfields Shire reminds us of the challenges of advocacy and the complex dynamics of funding decisions. These moments call for a deeper discussion about the roles of strategy, advocacy, and politics in securing regional prosperity.

The Challenges Behind Funding

The competitive landscape of grant funding is complex. Strong applications rely on data, evidence, and alignment with policy priorities. However, outcomes often intersect with political undercurrents. For Yarriambiack Shire and Central Goldfields Shire Councils, despite robust cases, external factors—beyond merit—seemed to influence the decision, according to Federal Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster. Both are in the safe Nationals seat of the Mallee electorate.

The $11.3 million secured for Marong will catalyse growth by enabling 2,369 new homes, aligning with state housing goals in a Labor stronghold. Similarly, the $2 million secured for Beaufort will unlock housing supply and foster community resilience in a competitive electorate.

All applications were submitted in August 2024, with funding announcements appearing to be strategically delayed until early 2025, coinciding with the lead-up to a national election. Criticism from Nationals Member Dr. Anne Webster highlights concerns over the process:

“I have written to the Australian National Audit Office to investigate the allocation of funding under this program, and whether it was genuinely determined on the basis of merit and need.”

(Read more: Media Release)

Strategy and Advocacy: The Foundation for Regional Prosperity

The reality is that not every deserving project receives funding. This challenge highlights the need for applicants (including government agencies) to focus on more than submissions; they must build enduring strategies to amplify their influence and resilience.

This example underscores the importance of advocacy and long-term strategic visibility alongside quality submissions.

At Grantus, we don’t just write compelling submissions; we create strategic frameworks that underpin every funding pursuit. This involves:

  1. Defining the Problem Clearly: A strong case starts with articulating the issue, supported by robust data that resonates with policymakers.

  2. Policy Alignment and Evidence: Successful applications align with government priorities and are backed by compelling, relevant evidence.

  3. Advocacy and Reach: Building relationships with decision-makers ensures regional voices are heard across the political spectrum.

  4. Adaptability to Political Dynamics: While remaining apolitical, navigating political nuances enhances opportunities for success.

  5. A Holistic Approach: Advocacy doesn’t end with funding announcements—continuing to engage stakeholders ensures unfunded projects stay visible.

Until recently, we avoided direct advocacy, relying on merit to guide decisions. While well-intentioned, this approach no longer reflects today’s political realities (and probably never did). Advocacy and government relationships don’t have to compromise ethics; they can uphold transparency and fairness while supporting regional prosperity.

Key Takeaways

  • Wins and losses are part of the journey: Celebrate achievements but reflect on missed opportunities to improve.

  • Strategy and advocacy matter as much as technical expertise: Building trust with policymakers, parliamentarians, and influencers is just as critical as crafting strong submissions.

  • Persistence is key: Keeping unfunded projects visible increases their chances of future success.

At Grantus, we’re evolving. Beyond grant writing, we’re focusing on advocacy, strategic planning, and government relations to strengthen the resilience of regional Australia. By working across the political divide, we aim to champion projects that uplift communities, no matter the funding hurdles.

What’s your experience with navigating advocacy in funding? Share your thoughts or connect with us to explore how we can work together for regional prosperity.

Photograph: Diego Fedele/AAP
Simon Coutts - CEO of Grantus

Simon Coutts

Simon is the CEO and Founder of Grantus, a trusted advisor in strategic funding, complex problem solving, and stakeholder management, driving growth and public benefit for organisations dedicated to making a lasting impact. Book a ‘Borrow My Brain‘ session with Simon.

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