The Australian Government has committed $10 million over 4 years to the REAL Project Fund to support initiatives that create new pathways to employment for First Nations people leaving the justice system.
On this page:
About the REAL Project Fund
The purpose of the REAL Project Fund is to support delivery of small-scale, community-led, innovative projects that build pathways to stable and culturally safe employment opportunities for First Nations people who have been in the justice system. The projects may seek to improve access to employment opportunities for First Nations people by addressing structural and social factors – such as workplace inclusion, cultural safety and community informed pathways.
The REAL Project Fund will be flexible to allow for innovative solutions. Projects may include working in partnership with employers to provide work experience and mentoring activities (like career planning) to address non-vocational barriers to employment.
Consultations
As part of stakeholder consultations on the REAL Program in 2024, the department consulted on the REAL Project Fund. Draft Grant Opportunity Guidelines were released for feedback on 7 July 2025. Submissions closed on 25 July 2025.
Aligning with the feedback received, the department will consider collaborative projects, led by Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and other First Nations organisations, that supports innovative, culturally safe, small initiatives/projects.
A Forecast Opportunity for the REAL Project Fund grant can be found on GrantConnect.
Further information on how to apply for the grants to deliver the REAL Project Fund will be provided on this page, and the GrantConnect website, when available.
It is anticipated that projects will commence in 2026.