Applications open for round four of the Bunya Fund

16 June 2025

The Bunya Fund – Australia’s first co-operative development fund – has opened applications for its fourth round, offering more than $60,000 in in-kind grants to support early-stage co-operatives and mutuals.

Established by the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM), the Fund plays a pivotal role in supporting high-impact co-operative projects that build stronger, more resilient communities across Australia.

Round Four will support three to four eligible initiatives with professional services, capacity building and infrastructure support, thanks to the generous contributions of Australian Unity, CBH Group and APS Benefits Group.

Applicants must submit their expression of interest by 5 pm AEST, 31 July 2025.

Priority will be given to projects aligned with the Fund’s key thematic areas:

• Wellbeing initiatives, such as healthcare or employment-focused co-ops

• Place-based community development

• Regional Western Australian projects, especially in grain-growing areas

• Housing and social investment initiatives

• South Australian co-operative ventures exploring access to debt finance

Whether you’re launching a new co-operative or transitioning an existing organisation to the co-operative or mutual model, The Bunya Fund offers crucial support to grow your impact.

Apply now to help grow the next generation of co-operatives in Australia.