All applications will be checked to make sure they meet the eligibility requirements. This is called an eligibility assessment.
For more details on funding stream eligibility see information on:
Small stream applications only go through an eligibility assessment.
Only medium and large stream applications that pass the eligibility check will move to the next stage, called a merit assessment. A merit assessment looks at the quality, impact and community benefit of your event.
If a medium or large stream application does not meet a specific merit criterion (such as priority group engagement or demonstrated capacity) it will receive no score for that criterion.
Merit assessment criteria (medium and large stream only)
| Assessment criteria | Criteria guidance | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| How your event supports the program objectives | To have the best chance of being funded, your application must show how your event supports the two objectives of the program. Program objective 1: to help Victorians celebrate and preserve cultures, and share traditions We look at how well your event:
Program objective 2: to encourage all Victorians to take part in cultural events and develop understanding and respect for different cultures We look at how well your event:
| 40% |
| Budget | Your budget needs to show that the event offers good value for money. The costs you list must be accurate, reasonable, and clearly linked to running your event. You must:
Additional requirements for the large stream only: If you are applying for the large stream, you must also:
2026-27 Multicultural Festivals and Events Program - Total Event Budget template
(opens in a new window)
| 25% |
| Your experience and skills to run the event | Your application must show that the organisation can successfully plan and deliver the festival or event. You must attach the project plan with the application. We look at the following: Your project plan: You must include a clear project plan (using the MFE template).
2026-27 Multicultural Festivals and Events Program - Project plan template
(opens in a new window)
The plan should show:
Your experience or resources: You need to show that your organisation has the skills, experience or resources to run the event well. You can do this by including:
Organisations are encouraged to include a list of past events and the resources they already have. Providing this will help increase the criteria score. | 20% |
| Engagement with priority groups | Your applications must show whether your event will mainly involve or support one of the priority groups listed below:
To receive a score for this criterion, explain:
For example:
| 15% |
Updated