Cottesloe excludes political groups from new community funding
Cottesloe's new community partnership policy bars political groups from ratepayer-funded grants.
The Town of Cottesloe council voted unanimously last week to endorse a draft policy. Community groups, non-profits, sporting clubs and charities remain eligible.
Political groups, commercial entities and private individuals are not. The council said political groups are too divisive to fund from rates.
Councillor Lorraine Young's amendment specifies the policy excludes groups whose main purpose is promoting contested public policy. The new framework covers grants, sponsorships, fee waivers and in-kind support.
The town already budgeted $18,000 for community donations in 2026-27 and will not seek extra funds. Public feedback runs for 28 days before a final council vote in November.
If approved, applications open January 1, 2027.
- $18,000
- Community donations budget 2026-27
- 28 days
- Public feedback period
- January 1, 2027
- Applications open
- 2004
- Previous policy adopted
Why it mattersCommunity groups now know whether they qualify for council support. Ratepayers know their money won't fund political campaigns.
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