Contributions, Donations and Sponsorships Policy

Introduction

From time to time, Council receives offers of donations and sponsorship from individuals, community groups and organisations to support Council-managed projects, services and events. Council explores external funding opportunities through grants and partnerships to alleviate the financial burden on ratepayers while continuing to provide valuable programs and services for the community.

Hindmarsh Shire Council is committed to planning and delivering community projects across the Shire that benefit local communities. This includes developing and redeveloping Council assets, as well as existing community infrastructure that is owned by the Victorian Government (or one of its entities), where Council is required to be the project coordinator.

When seeking funding for projects, partnering with community groups will better position Council to develop and renovate community assets. Where the funding source requires a co-contribution, this could consist of one or a combination of the following:

• A financial contribution from Council
• A financial contribution from the local community (“community contribution”)

Purpose of Policy

The purpose of the Contributions, Donations and Sponsorships Policy is to clearly articulate the steps required for the management of community contributions, relating to development projects within the Shire and provide guidance on minimum contribution requirements from community group/s.

This Policy also provides for governance arrangements around donations to Council and requests for Council donations, monetary, materials, or in-kind, to projects or services managed by a community group or organisation within Hindmarsh Shire.

Proposed Amendments to Policy

The Contributions, Donations and Sponsorships Policy, has been expanded from solely focusing on community contributions to Council funded or auspice projects, to include requests for Council to both give and receive sponsorships and donations. This addition ensures that there are consistent, transparent and clear governance arrangements around these types of requests that can resource and enhance community projects.

Feedback from You

Before Council adopts the amended Policy, we'd like to hear from you! Please read the draft Policy (attached to this page) and complete the survey below and provide your feedback on the Policy and the proposed amendments.

Please provide your feedback by 11:59pm on Thursday 11 September 2025.

If you have any questions about this policy, please contact Petra Croot, Director Corporate and Community Services, on (03) 5391 4444, or email info@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

Outcome of Consultation

This policy was adopted by Council at the meeting held on Wednesday 24 September 2025.