Summer by the Sea grants
Summer by the Sea grants support environmental educators to deliver free summer events to the Victorian community.
The Victorian Government provides funding through the annual Summer By The Sea Grants for free public activities on coastal Crown Land.
Since 2021, the Summer By The Sea Grants has delivered over 350 free activities reaching more than 19,000 people. These activities champion inclusivity and enhance the diversity of Victorians who visit and care for our coastal environments.
The Summer By The Sea Grants objectives are:
- Champion inclusivity and increase the diversity of Victorians visiting and caring for coastal & marine environments
- Build the capability of Victorians to take informed action on conservation, sustainability and climate change through event-based educational activities
- Prioritise Traditional Custodians' Self-Determination in caring for Country, recognising their deep knowledge and enduring connection to Sea Country
- Promote positive behaviour change and marine and coastal volunteering and stewardship
What might be funded as part of Summer By The Sea?
The Summer By The Sea 2027 grants program funds activity providers to deliver free, accessible coastal experiences that connect Victorians with marine and coastal environments, increase environmental awareness, and encourage stewardship and volunteering.
For more information about the types of events which might be funded and eligibility requirements, read the 2027 Summer By The Sea Guidelines.
Key dates
Event | Date |
|---|---|
Applications open | 31 August 2026 |
Applications close Late applications will not be accepted | 3 pm AEST 28 September 2026 |
Event delivery | 1 January – 31 January 2027 |
Acquittal reports submitted | February 2027 |
What is the application process?
Applications are submitted online using the DEECA Grants Online portal.
Use the link below to start your application. Click on the ‘Start New Application’ button once redirected:
https://deeca.my.site.com/grants/s/form?id=a0hRF00000MeszVYAR
Frequently Asked Questions
Before contacting DEECA, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for answers to common questions about the Summer By The Sea 2027 grants, including support for submitting your application form via the DEECA Grants Online portal.
Documentation to support your application:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - updated 14 September 2026
Job Safety & Emergency Plan Template
Letter of Support Template (general)
Letter of Support Template (for community groups or organisations)
Additional Information
If you require technical assistance submitting your application online, please email grantsinfo@deeca.vic.gov.au.
For questions specific to the Summer By The Sea program, please contact: coastcare.victoria@deeca.vic.gov.au
Get involved!
We’re making it easy for people interested in coastal environmental volunteering to find their local Coastcare group, using this map and guide: https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/volunteering/volunteering/getting-involved
Looking for a specific Coastcare group or project? Volunteering Opportunities
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For more information, please contact: coastcare.victoria@deeca.vic.gov.au
Page last updated: 14/09/26