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                    Event Partnership Program

                    People dining at outdoor tables by river with city in background
                    Melbourne is a globally recognised, locally-loved events city that supports and delivers a diverse calendar of unique events each year.

                    At City of Melbourne, through the Event Partnership Program, we support free and accessible events that create memorable, engaging and innovative experiences for both locals and visitors. 

                    The Event Partnership Program​ runs one application round annually which is available to events or festivals that will contribute to the city’s vibrancy. 

                    As a partnership program, all events sponsored through the Event Partnership Program may be offered cash and / or in-kind sponsorship, and in return are required to deliver partnership benefits to the City of Melbourne. The benefits are required to be equal to the value of the sponsorship investment, and may include benefits such as brand exposure, marketing and digital advertising, activations, signage, tickets and hospitality.

                    The Event Partnership Program is a competitive program, regularly receiving more applications than it can support. All applications are assessed against eligibility criteria and outcomes for applicants are determined by the strength of the application, alignment to the program objectives and City of Melbourne’s vision and goals.​​​

                    Preview the guidelines before applications open 6 May 2024. 

                    Guidelines and application form are subject to change up until application opening date.

                    Key dates

                    • Monday 4 March 2024: Application form available to preview 
                    • ​Wednesday 24 April 2024: Information webinar 
                    • Thursday 2 May 2024: Applicant consultations 
                    • Monday 6 May 2024: Applications open 
                    • Thursday 9 May 2024: Applicant consultations 
                    • Friday 31 May 2024, 4pm: Applications close  
                    • September 2024: Applicants notified of outcome  

                    Applications for events in the 2024 calendar year have closed.  

                    We are unable to accept out-of-round applications.​

                    Application consultations

                    To ensure your event application is a success and you get the most out of our program, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our Event Partnership team before starting your application. During this 15-minute call, we can discuss your eligibility and answer any questions you have about the application process. 

                    We have set aside two consultation dates, Thursday 2 May and Thursday 9 May between 1pm and 4pm. 

                    To schedule your consultation, email us at eventsponsorship@melbourne.vic.gov.au with your preferred date and time, and we'll get back to you to confirm the details.​

                    Information webinar

                    A webinar providing comprehensive information regarding program criteria and the application process is scheduled on Wednesday 24 April at 1pm. Interested applicants are encouraged to attend. 

                    Register online for the webinar using Microsoft Teams.

                    A recorded version of the webinar will be available to view.

                    Eligibility criteria

                    To be eligible for the Event Partnership Program, the event must: 

                    • Be free to attend or h​ave significant free programming. ​ 

                    • Have a minimum of 5,000 attendees to the free programming element. ​ 

                    • Start between 1 January – 31 December 2025.  

                    • Demonstrate that their sponsorship request equates to less than 70% of the overall expenditure of the free programming budget.  

                    • Have a valid Certificate of Currency for public liability insurance.  

                    • Occur within the City of Melbourne municipality. ​  

                    Applications will be ineligible if any of the following apply:​ 

                    • The applicant is not a legal entity with an ABN. ​ 

                    • The applicant’s ABN entity type is individual or sole trader. ​ 

                    • Events that offer paid entry tickets only or events that require a compulsory donation for entry. ​ 

                    • Industry or business events. eg conference, tradeshow, congress, symposium etc.​ 

                    • The event is an exhibition, PR opportunity, award ceremony, commercial theatre production or recurring market.​ 

                    • The event is a teaching program, lecture or university open day.​ 

                    • The event is online only.  

                    • Events that have an adverse effect on public health, safety, the environment or heritage.​ 

                    • Events that denigrate or exclude any groups in the community.​ 

                    • Events that sell or promote unethically sourced animal products.  

                    • Events that exploit or use animals in harmful ways. For example, through exhibition or use in performances. 

                    • Events or Festivals (including components thereof) that receive funding from another program.  

                    • Organisations that have an outstanding debt to City of Melbourne or that have failed to comply with the terms and conditions of any previous funding agreement with City of Melbourne.  ​ 

                    • The applicant undertakes canvassing or lobbying of Elected Members and / or employees of City of Melbourne in relation to the sponsorship request during the application and assessment period.​ 

                    • The applicant is a City of Melbourne employee​.   

                    Ineligible applications will not advance to the assessment stage and applicants will be notified.

                    Frequently asked questions

                    What type of event can apply for the Event Part​​nership Program? 

                    The Event Partnership Program supports free and accessible events that are held within the City of Melbourne municipality. Events can be a recurring event or brand new, in its planning stages. It must also have significant free programming and attract a minimum of 5,000 attendees. A full list of eligibility requirements can be found in the Event Partnership Program guidelines

                    Can I apply for funding outside of the Event ​Partnership Program round? 

                    There is one application round each year for our annual Event Partnership Program and applications are not accepted out of round. Applications for 2025 events open 6 May 2024. Stay up to date about new opportunities by visiting our grants and sponsorship webpage. You can also sign up to our mailing list

                     Can my organisation submit more than one application for the Event Partnership Program?  

                    Organisations can submit more than one application if each separate event meets the eligibility criteria. Each application will be assessed on their own merit. Each application requires a high level of detail, therefore we recommend submitting one event application of a high standard rather than duplicating your application submission for multiple events.  

                    Does my organisation need to be based​ in the City of Melbourne to be eligible for sponsorship? 

                    No, your organisation does not need to be based in the City of Melbourne however the event must be held within the City of Melbourne municipality.   

                    I want to hold my event at a City o​f Melbourne outdoor space. Is this included in my sponsorship? 

                    As part of your application, you can apply for in-kind sponsorship which relates to the partial or full waiver of event site hire fees for City of Melbourne’s public outdoor spaces. Not for profit / community organisations will automatically have any applicable site hire fees waived, regardless of the outcome of their application. Commercial events will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Spaces can be viewed via the City of Melbourne Interactive Map (CoMMaps) and you will need to apply for an event permit prior to your application being submitted to be considered.  

                    I want to use a City of Melbourne owned venu​e. Is this included in my sponsorship? 

                    No, these venues need to be booked separately and incur a fee. City of Melbourne has various facilities to hire for community and commercial use, which can be viewed here.  

                    Can I get assistance or advice​ before I submit my application?  

                    The Event Partnerships team have individual consultations available leading up to application submission time in which you will have the opportunity to book a 15-minute timeslot to discuss your event. To book your consultation please email eventsponsorship@melbourne.vic.gov.au   

                    Can the Event Partnership team ​review my application before submission? 

                    Unfortunately, we are unable to view applications prior to submission. This ensures the assessment process is fair and equitable. We can however arrange an individual consultation to discuss your event prior to submitting your application.  

                    How long will it take to complete an application online? ​

                    The time to complete your application varies depending on the complexity of your event. There is also a large volume of supporting documentation required. It is strongly recommended that you start preparing your application early and do not leave it until the final day to submit. You can view our sample application form to better prepare before applications open on Monday 6 May.  

                    Will my event receive funding if it has received funding ​in previous years? 

                    The City of Melbourne is committed to ensuring the assessment process is fair and equitable. Recurring annual funding is not guaranteed. The Event Partnership Program is an extremely competitive program that is oversubscribed every year and therefore each application is assessed on the application that is submitted.  

                    Are the details of my application confidential? ​

                    All information collected in your application is securely stored in SmartyGrants and City of Melbourne computer systems. Your information may be disclosed to internal parties. Your information will not be disclosed to any external party without your consent, unless required or authorised by law. Your personal information is collected to ensure that Council can contact you in a timely manner in relation to your sponsorship.

                    Types of EPP sponsorships

                    Cash sponsorship

                    The allocation of City of Melbourne cash sponsorship will be negotiated between both parties and specified in the sponsorship agreement. Cash sponsorship must be allocated towards your event. 

                    In-kind sponsorship

                    In-kind sponsorship relates to the partial or full waiver of event site hire fees for City of Melbourne’s public outdoor spaces only. City of Melbourne’s interactive map has a list of the public open spaces managed by City of Melbourne that are deemed suitable for events. 

                    If the event is held in any of these spaces, a separate permit application will need to be made online and fees may apply. See the Event permit and site hire fees section below for further information.

                    Not for profit / community organisations will automatically have any applicable site hire fees waived, regardless of the EPP sponsorship status. Commercial events will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

                    In-kind sponsorship excludes any costs associated with other City of Melbourne permits such as planning or food and health permits. 

                    Applicants can request cash and / or in-kind sponsorship. The total value of the sponsorship is calculated by combining the value of both cash and in-kind support.

                    Assessment criteria

                    Summary of free event programming

                    City of Melbourne supports engaging experiences that encourage attendees to actively participate as part of the event - therefore a detailed description of the various free programming elements is required.

                    Cultural programming and community engagement

                    Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners and / or Welcome to Country

                    An Acknowledgment of Traditional Owners and / or a Welcome to Country, should be given at all events receiving sponsorship through the EPP. This recognises that Victoria has a strong and proud Aboriginal history and complex ownership and land stewardship systems stretching back many thousands of years and it pays respect to the Traditional Owners. 

                    Community engagement

                    Events that City of Melbourne support must provide the opportunity for people to feel more connected and engaged with their community. A good application will outline:

                    • Any additional cultural programming that will involve Aboriginal history and culture; 
                    • How many different community groups have been engaged in the planning and delivery of the event; 
                    • How many different communities will attend the event; and 
                    • How attendees can engage with the various communities as part of the event experience. 

                    Business engagement

                    City of Melbourne supports events that partner with businesses and help showcase Melbourne’s unique shopping and dining precincts. A good application will outline: 

                    • How your event will directly engage with local businesses and retailers as part of the event delivery; or
                    • How your event will create direct economic impact for local businesses through incentive offers and / or marketing of local businesses as part of the event.

                    Accessibility

                    Accessibility is an important consideration for any event City of Melbourne will partner with, as such event organisers must consider accessibility as part of their planning and put measures in place to ensure that the event site is accessible to everyone.

                    As part of Council’s commitment to accessibility a self-ass​essment checklist has been developed to help businesses and event organisers to ensure equal access for people of all ages and abilities. This checklist can also be used as a guide when planning improvements or when selecting sites for festivals or events.

                    Child safe standards

                    City of Melbourne is committed to being a child safe organisation and has zero tolerance for child abuse. Where applicable, the EPP is looking to attract events that observe child safe principles and expectations for appropriate behaviour towards and in the company of children and young people.

                    Sustainability

                    All events sponsored through the EPP must commit to reducing their environmental impact and improving waste management. A good application will provide details of their sustainable commitments as part of the event delivery, including: 

                    • Encouraging the use of public transport to and from the event;
                    • Providing recycling facilities;
                    • Removal of banned single-use plastics; 
                    • Reducing printed collateral;
                    • Completing a waste audit report; and
                    • Establishing improvement targets.

                    Please find more information through the Sustainable Event Guide.

                    Priority considerations

                    Visitation and Spend

                    In a post-COVID Melbourne tourism expenditure generated by an event will be a key metric in measuring the value added to the Melbourne economy, as a result of tourism activities generated by a funded event.

                    Docklands

                    Docklands is a priority precinct for City of Melbourne and the EPP is actively looking to attract eligible events to Docklands. Preference will be given to events that offer benefits to Docklands’ workers, residents, and local businesses. Events that will attract significant new audiences to the area are also encouraged to apply for sponsorship.

                    Winter events

                    Winter is a priority season to activate in Melbourne, and the EPP is actively looking to attract eligible events staged during this traditionally quieter time on the event calendar.

                    Twilight and late night activation

                    Keeping Melbourne city vibrant at all times of the day is a priority. Twilight events (6pm-9pm) that give city workers a reason to stay and spend money in the city, and late night events (post 9pm) that offer a different experience to existing late night entertainment offerings will both be strongly considered.

                    Lobbying

                    Lobbying of the Lord Mayor, Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillors, the employees of City of Melbourne or assessment panel members in relation to a sponsorship application is strictly prohibited. No consideration will be given to an application submitted by an applicant where such lobbying has been proven to have taken place. 

                    Supporting application documentation

                    Event marketing and communications plan

                    Event marketing is how you plan to promote and advertise your event to a wider audience to drive event attendance. Your application must include a copy of your event marketing and communications plan detailing: 

                    • Specific plans for your free programming components;
                    • How your event will hero Melbourne as a destination of choice; and
                    • How your event will create international, national, state or local exposure.

                    Summary of Sponsorship Benefits Package

                    The Event Partnership Program is a sponsorship program and not a grant, therefore there is an expectation that the application outlines a summary of bespoke sponsorship benefits on offer to City of Melbourne that are representative of your requested sponsorship tier. This may include Councillor speaking / profile opportunities, tickets / invitations for associated events and digital and print advertising.  You are able upload a bespoke summary or detail this as part of the application form.

                    Visitation data

                    It is an expectation that all events sponsored through the EPP commit to driving visitation to City of Melbourne. As part of the application for funding, you will be required to supply data on the events expected visitation and spend.

                    Economic Impact Report (Tier 1 and Tier 2 only)

                    City of Melbourne values events that contribute significant economic impact to the municipality of Melbourne by enticing audiences that contribute to the local economy into the city. If your organisation does not have a recent Economic Impact Report, you will need to outline how this will be reported.

                    Market research

                    Market research is the gathering of information and data from event attendees. It can provide statistical support to validate your planned target audience(s), target areas of improvement and can also be valuable for sponsors. Details on how past market research has been utilised for these purposes, and information about how the event will conduct market research in future events will be highly regarded.

                    Event Risk Assessment

                    City of Melbourne wants to ensure that events have considered all event risks and have addressed these with specific allowances. Please refer to pages 24 - 26, 46 and 49 of the Melbourne Event Planning Guide for guidance. Evidence that the event has considered all safety measures to deliver a public event must be provided. This should include a Risk Assessment and a Crowd Management Plan. 

                    Event budget

                    All applications must include a balanced budget, where all costs are accurate and reasonable. 

                    Income: Include all sources of income (confirmed and unconfirmed) required to fund the costs of the event such as: 

                    • City of Melbourne sponsorship request; 
                    • Other grants or sponsorship (government, philanthropic, private and corporate); 
                    • Earned income (e.g. ticket sales); and 
                    • In-kind support.

                    Expenditure: Include all expenses in the budget, highlighting where City of Melbourne sponsorship will be allocated. Events must not be fully reliant on funding from City of Melbourne and must be able to demonstrate that their sponsorship request equates to less than 70% of the overall expenditure of the free programming budget. 

                    Minimum level of funding required

                    As part of your application, you are required to outline the minimum amount of sponsorship funding required to deliver the event to the scale that is noted in your application. This will give you the option to provide, in detail, the impact a lower funding amount may have on your event. While we endeavour to provide the sponsorship amount requested, with limited funds available, that is not always possible.

                    On occasion, successful applicants receive a lower amount than requested. This may occur when:

                    • The full funding is not available;
                    • The funding requested is not relative to events of a similar size and nature; and
                    • The assessors believe the event will still be viable and worthwhile, however not at the full sponsorship level.

                    We strongly encourage applicants to make use of the questions where appropriate, so that assessors can make informed decisions about the viability of your event.

                    If your event is successful but you did not receive the full amount of funding, your Partnership Account Manager will be happy to discuss any changes you may need to make to the event to determine whether it is still mutually viable.

                    Event permit and site hire fees

                    If you intend on using any outdoor public open space managed by City of Melbourne, you need to submit an event permit application online. A minimum of 6 weeks’ notice will be required to process an application. Fees may be applicable for an event permit regardless of the outcome of this application. For information about an outdoor space, view the City of Melbourne interactive map, contact the Event Operations Team on (03) 9658 9658, or via email at events@melbourne.vic.gov.au.

                    A quote for site hire fees does not constitute as an event permit. You must continue to work with the Event Operations Team to submit necessary documentation required to obtain an event permit.

                    Event permits ensure public safety and amenity in public spaces and assist in the sustainable management of our parks and gardens. For further information, go to the event permits page on the City of Melbourne website.

                    Follow the steps outlined below to apply for an event permit:

                    • Submit an online event permit application and indicate that you are applying to the EPP (for sponsorship with the Event Partnership Program)
                    • If you do not receive a quote for site hire fees within 10 days - email events@melbourne.vic.gov.au or call (03) 9658 9658 to speak with a member of the Event Operations team as you will need to indicate the value as part of your EPP application form.

                    Council Policy determines that not-for-profit or community organisations automatically receive a waiver for the event permit fees, regardless of EPP sponsorship.

                    If you are a commercial entity you are required to pay full event permit fees, and, if your EPP application is successful, these fees may be waived as in-kind sponsorship.

                    Assessment process

                    Applications will be assessed by the Event Partnership team using a set of weighted assessment criteria, and then reviewed by a panel of managers from various divisions within City of Melbourne. Each year, the EPP receives more applications than it can support, and so outcomes are determined on the following basis:

                    • The application’s ability to meet the assessment criteria. 
                    • The ability to demonstrate adherence to the criteria and partnership benefits as per chosen tier (see partnership tier criteria tables).  
                    • The merit of the event concept and whether it adds value to the annual calendar of events based on uniqueness, timing, location and audience.  
                    • For returning events, the level of new free programming and / or increased benefits to community sectors.  
                    • The value of sponsorship benefits offered to City of Melbourne in the form of speaking opportunities, brand exposure, signage, tickets and hospitality, and community engagement opportunities.  
                    • The amount of sponsorship requested, and the total request for sponsorship by all events within the application round.  
                    • Demonstrated compliance with past sponsorship agreements and delivery of previously sponsored events (if applicable).  
                    • The quality and completeness of the information provided.  
                    • The demonstrated capacity of the organisation to deliver the event.  
                    • Recommendations are then put forward to a meeting of the Lord Mayor, Deputy Lord Mayor and Councillors, for their review and ultimate decision. 

                    Partnership process

                    Sponsorship agreement

                    All successful applicants will be required to enter into a written sponsorship agreement with City of Melbourne which includes terms and conditions, benefits and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

                    The maximum term of each agreement is three (3) years. If applying for a multi-year partnership, the application should present a compelling rationale as to how this will support the event’s strategic direction and reciprocated outcomes.

                    Successful applicants will also be required to accept City of Melbourne’s standard payment schedule, which is 50% of any cash sponsorship paid prior to the delivery of the event, with the balance payable on submission of a post-event report and full achievement of KPIs to the satisfaction of City of Melbourne. At the discretion of City of Melbourne, additional conditions may be placed on your sponsorship with accompanying adjustments to the standard payment schedule. 

                    Post-event reporting 

                    All events that receive support through the EPP are required to submit a post-event report which includes financial statements and / or invoices at the conclusion of the event. If a sponsored event fails to submit an adequate post-event report to the satisfaction of City of Melbourne or fails to deliver each of the KPIs outlined within the sponsorship agreement, then it is at the discretion of the City of Melbourne as to whether the full sponsorship amount will be paid. 

                    Application assistance

                    Online application assistance 

                    If you need technical help completing the online form, the staff at SmartyGrants are available to assist you. Contact the SmartyGrants help desk on (03) 9320 6888 during business hours or email service@smartygrants.com.au and quote your application reference number.

                    Event planning guide 

                    City of Melbourne has produced an interactive Melbourne Event Planning Guide. The guide provides an accessible and comprehensive overview of event permitting processes and planning requirements when organising an event within the city's public spaces.

                    Tax advice  

                    The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) considers grants and sponsorships as taxable income. The ATO can help with information on tax, including GST. Call 13 2866 or visit the ATO's website for further information.

                    Interpreter and translation Services  

                    If you need an interpreter when calling City of Melbourne, please call Language Link on (03) 9280 0726 or call TTY (03) 9658 9641.

                    Hearing impairments 

                    If you are deaf, hearing-impaired, or speech-impaired, please call us via the National Relay Service:

                    • Teletypewriter (TTY) users call 133 677 then ask for 03 9658 9658; and

                    • Speak and Listen users call 1300 555 727 then ask for 03 9658 9658.

                    Charging for services

                    When applying for a grant or sponsorship, be wary of cold-callers or websites that charge for services – this assistance is available for free. Visit the ACCC for tips about protecting your business or project.

                    Event Partnership Program recipients

                    Recipients 2024


                    ​Recipient
                    Event​
                    ​African Music and Cultural Festival
                    ​African Music and Cultural Festival
                    ​African Music and Cultural Festival
                    ​African Music and Cultural Festival Summer at Queen
                    Victoria Market
                    ​Asia Oasis Pty Ltd
                    ​Asia Street Food Festival
                    ​Australian Football League
                    ​AFL Grand Final Events
                    ​Australian Football League (AFL)
                    ​Christmas at Marvel Stadium
                    ​Bastille Day French Festival Inc
                    ​Bastille Day French Festival​
                    ​Beacon Holidays T/A Foodie Trails
                    ​African Festival Melbourne
                    ​Beacon Holidays T/A Foodie Trails / FT Events

                    ​Sri Lankan Festival
                    ​Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria Inc
                    ​Buddha's Day & Multicultural Festival
                    ​Casablanca Events Pty Ltd

                    ​Vida Melbourne Latin Festival
                    ​Casablanca Events Pty Ltd

                    ​Arriba! Melbourne Mexican Festival​
                    CO.AS.IT – Italian Assistance Association​
                    ​Melbourne Italian Festa 2024 
                    ​Committee for Melbourne Ltd
                    ​Melbourne International Student Week​
                    ​Comunidades de Lingua Portuguesa Inc. 
                    ​Taste of Portugal 
                    ​Department of Families, Fairness and Housing
                    ​Victorian Seniors Festival
                    ​Fairfax Media Events Pty Limited
                    ​Bite Sized Night Noodle Markets
                    ​Food and Drink Victoria
                    ​Melbourne Food & Wine Festival​
                    ​Future Foundation for Kids
                    ​Lankan Fest
                    ​Greek Community of Melbourne
                    ​Antipodes Festival​
                    ​International Management Group of America Ptd Ltd
                    ​Melbourne Marathon
                    ​Kensington Business Association
                    ​Discover Kensington Street Festival
                    ​Korean Society of Victoria
                    ​Korea Festival 2024
                    ​Melbourne Chinatown Association Inc
                    ​Chinese Lunar New Year 2024
                    ​Melbourne Fashion Festival Ltd
                    ​PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival​
                    ​Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
                    (International Management Group of America)
                    ​Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
                    ​Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club Limited
                    ​Melbourne Storm Community Events
                    ​Melbourne Symphony Orchestra​​Celebrating Melbourne: Connecting Communities at
                    Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Sidney Myer Free
                    Concert Series
                    ​Melbourne United Basketball
                    ​Melbourne United Multicultural Festival
                    ​Midsumma Festival Inc
                    ​Midsumma Festival
                    ​Mother's Day Classic Foundation
                    ​Mother's Day Classic
                    ​National Basketball League
                    ​NBL Festival of Basketball
                    ​Open House Melbourne Inc
                    ​Open House Melbourne
                    ​Polish Festival Incorporated
                    ​Polish Festival
                    ​RSL Victoria 
                    ​ANZAC Day
                    ​SalamFest
                    ​EID @ Queen Victoria Market
                    ​Sandro Demaio Foundation
                    ​Little Food Festival​
                    ​Saras.Care
                    ​Diwali@Docklands
                    ​Solangture Pty Ltd 
                    ​Melbourne International Dumpling Festival
                    ​Sustainable Living Foundation
                    ​National Sustainable Living Festival​
                    ​Tennis Australia Limited
                    ​Australian Open
                    ​The Centre: Connecting Community in North & West
                    Melbourne
                    ​Queensberry Cup
                    ​The Federation of Chinese Associations (VIC) Inc

                    ​Melbourne Lantern Festival
                    ​The Long Walk
                    ​The Long Walk
                    ​Victoria Racing Club
                    ​Melbourne Cup Live Site
                    ​Zero Waste Victoria
                    ​Zero Waste Festival

                    Recipients 2023


                    ​Recipient
                    ​Event
                    ​African Music and Cultural Festival
                    ​African Music and Cultural Festival 
                    ​ASEAN Association Australia Inc
                    ​Malaysia Hawker Festival
                    ​Asian Community of Australia 
                    ​Melbourne Lunar New Year Festival 
                    ​Australia Bangladesh Cultural Exchange Inc.
                    ​South Asian Festival
                    ​Bastille Day French Festival Inc.
                    ​Bastille Day French Festival
                    ​Beacon Holidays Pty Ltd T/A Foodie Trails
                    ​Sri Lankan Festival 
                    ​Beacon Holidays Pty Ltd T/A Foodie Trails
                    ​African Festival Melbourne 
                    ​Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria Inc
                    ​Buddha's Day & Multicultural Festival
                    ​Casablanca Events Pty Ltd
                    ​Arriba Melbourne Mexican Festival
                    ​Casablanca Events Pty Ltd
                    ​Vida Melbourne Latin Festival
                    ​Celebrate India Inc
                    ​Victorian Festival of Diwali 
                    ​Committee for Melbourne Ltd
                    ​Melbourne International Student Week 
                    ​Comunidades de Lingua Portuguesa Inc.
                    ​Taste of Portugal 
                    ​Council of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria
                    ​NGV Kids Summer Festival and Kids Exhibitions
                    ​Disability Sport and Recreation
                    ​Victorian Disability Sport and Recreation Festival
                    ​Fairfax Media Events Pty Ltd 
                    ​Night Noodle Markets
                    ​Future foundation for kids
                    ​Lankan Fest 
                    ​International Management Group of America Ptd Ltd
                    ​Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
                    ​International Management Group of America Ptd Ltd
                    ​Melbourne Marathon Festival
                    ​Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia - Melbourne Inc.
                    ​Melbourne Italian Festa
                    ​Kensington Business Association
                    ​Discover Kensington Street Fest
                    ​Made In India Media Pty Ltd
                    ​Holi Festival Melbourne
                    ​Melbourne Chinatown Association Inc.
                    ​Lunar New Year 
                    ​Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club Limited
                    ​Melbourne Storm Community Events
                    ​Melbourne United Basketball
                    ​Melbourne United Multicultural Festival
                    ​Mind Blowing Films Pty Ltd
                    ​Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
                    ​Moreland Turkish Association Inc
                    ​Turkish Pazar Festival 
                    ​Mother's Day Classic Foundation
                    ​Mother's Day Classic 
                    ​National Basketball League
                    ​Summer Slam - 3x3 Pro Hustle
                    ​Netball Victoria
                    ​Melbourne Vixens Fan Day
                    ​NXF Media Pty Ltd
                    ​Melbourne World Rice Festival 
                    ​Polish Festival Inc
                    ​Polish Festival @ Fed Square
                    ​Red Bull
                    ​Red Bull Formula 1 Show Run
                    ​Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal
                    ​Kids Day Out
                    ​SalamFest Inc
                    ​SalamFest Muslim Arts Festival
                    ​Sandro Demaio Foundation
                    ​Little Food Festival
                    ​Solangture Pty Ltd
                    ​Melbourne International Dumpling Festival 
                    ​Sole Motive Pty Ltd
                    ​Run Melbourne
                    ​The Centre:  Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne
                    ​Queensberry Cup
                    ​The District Docklands
                    ​District Live: Open-Air Series
                    ​The Herald and Weekly Times
                    ​Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the Kids 
                    ​The Trustee for The Long Walk Trust
                    ​The Long Walk 
                    ​VEE Agency Pty Ltd
                    ​Uniquely Melbourne
                    ​Whisky Week Pty Ltd
                    ​Melbourne Whisky Week

                    Recipients 2022

                    Tier 1

                    Event
                    Organisation / Applicant
                    Melbourne International Flower and Garden ShowInternational Management Group Of America Pty Ltd
                    Kids Summer Festival and Kids ExhibitionsCouncil of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria
                    An Immersive Exhibition (working title)The Social Crew

                    Tier 2

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    NBL @ Fed SquareNational Basketball League
                    BlakHEART 2022Federation Square
                    Maifest MelbourneOktoberfest Brisbane Pty Ltd
                    Red Bull Billy CartRed Bull Australia Pty. Ltd.
                    Light Up Melbourne FestivalThe Association of Australian Sichuanese Inc.

                    Tier 3

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the KidsThe Herald And Weekly Times Pty Limited
                    Melbourne Marathon FestivalInternational Management Group of America Pty Ltd
                    Gallery Night presented by Melbourne Art FairMelbourne Art Foundation
                    Polish Festival at Federation SquarePolish Festival Incorporated
                    Not-so-silent CinemaInsite Arts International
                    Melbourne Italian Festa 2022 - Summer EditionItalian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia Melbourne Inc.
                    Melbourne Italian Festa - Autumn EditionItalian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia Melbourne Inc.
                    Arriba Melbourne Mexican FestivalCasablanca Events Pty Ltd
                    Mother's Day Classic 2022Mother's Day Classic Foundation Ltd
                    Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2022Mind Blowing Films Pty Ltd
                    Melbourne Storm Community EventsMelbourne Storm Rugby League Club
                    Run MelbourneSole Motive Pty Ltd
                    2022 Chinatown Melbourne Mid-Autumn FestivalChinatown Precinct Association Inc.
                    Truffle Melbourne Festival Weekend 2022Melbourne Truffle Festival Pty Ltd
                    GODDESS ExhibitionAustralian Centre For The Moving Image
                    Bastille Day French FestivalBastille Day French Festival
                    Melbourne International Student WeekMelbourne International Student Week
                    Melbourne Vixens Fan DayNetball Victoria
                    SalamFest Muslim Arts FestivalSalamFest Inc.
                    Blak & Bright First Nations Literary FestivalBlak & Bright First Nations Literary Festival (auspiced by The Wheeler Centre)
                    Carols at The DistrictThe District Docklands
                    Victorian Disability Sport and Recreation FestivalDisability Sport And Recreation Limited
                    North West Fest (working title)The Centre: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne
                    Little Food FestivalSandro Demaio Foundation

                    Tier 4

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Leaders of Change Youth FestivalMoral Fairground
                    Spanish Language FiestaThe Centre: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne Inc.
                    Melbourne International Dumpling FestivalSolangture Pty Ltd
                    Be Mindful DaySuper V Pty Ltd.
                    South Asian FestivalAustralia Bangladesh Cultural Exchange Inc.
                    Taste of Portugal 2022Comunidades de Lingua Portuguesa Inc.
                    Melbourne Harmony FestivalMusicult Inc.
                    African Festival Melbourne 2022Beacon Holidays T/A Foodie Trails
                    Indian Festival Melbourne 2022Beacon Holidays T/A Foodie Trails
                    Fox Footy Longest Kick 2022TLA Worldwide
                    Malaysia Street Festival 2022ASEAN Association Australia
                    Southbank Community DaySouthbank Residents Association
                    Carlton Harmony FestivalCarlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc.

                    Recipients 2021

                    Tier 1

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Melbourne Food and Wine FestivalFood And Wine Victoria
                    Midsumma FestivalMidsumma Festival Inc.
                    Melbourne Chinese New Year FestivalMelbourne Dai Loong Association Inc.
                    Australian OpenTennis Australia

                    Tier 2

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Open House MelbourneOpen House Melbourne
                    NGV Triennial 2020/21Council of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria
                    Kids Day OutRoyal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal
                    Alpine Winter VillageCreative Vision Management Group Pty Ltd
                    National Sustainable Living FestivalSustainable Living Foundation Inc.
                    Melbourne Fashion FestivalMelbourne Fashion Festival Ltd
                    2021 Melbourne Lantern Festival 'Yuan Xiao Jie'The Federation of Chinese Associations Vic
                    Melbourne Cup Carnival and Lexus Melbourne Cup ParadeVictoria Racing Club Limited
                    BlakHEARTFederation Square

                    Tier 3

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Formula 1 Australian Grand PrixAustralian Grand Prix Corporation
                    Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: The Art of Disney: The magic behind animationAustralian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)
                    Vida Melbourne Latin FestivalCasablanca Events
                    2021 Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the KidsThe Herald and Weekly Times P/L
                    Run MelbourneSole Motive
                    Cultural Diversity Week - Victoria's Multicultural FestivalVictorian Multicultural Commission
                    2021 Light Up Melbourne FestivalThe Association of Australian Sichuanese Inc.
                    Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show - Daisy Chain World Record AttemptMelbourne International Flower and Garden Show (IMG)
                    Melbourne Marathon FestivalInternational Management Group of America Pty Ltd
                    The Long WalkThe Long Walk Trust
                    Melbourne Italian FestaItalian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia Melbourne Inc.
                    Olympics LiveAustralian Olympic Committee
                    Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2021Mind Blowing Films Pty Ltd
                    Maifest MelbourneFestival Services Pty Ltd
                    2021 Chinatown Melbourne Mid-Autumn FestivalChinatown Precinct Association Inc.
                    Mother's Day Classic Virtual+Local 2021Mothers Day Classic Foundation Ltd
                    Truffle Melbourne Festival Weekend 2021Melbourne Truffle Festival Pty Ltd trading as Truffle Melbourne
                    Arriba Melbourne Mexican FestivalCasablanca Events
                    Fair@Square Ethical Lifestyle Festival 2021 - Living LocalMoral Fairground
                    World Vegan DayWorld Vegan Day Melbourne
                    SalamFest Muslim Arts FestivalSalamFest Inc.
                    Melbourne Art WeekMelbourne Art Foundation
                    The Melbourne Regatta & Blessing of the FleetMelbourne Passenger Boating Association
                    Turkish Pazar FestivalMoreland Turkish Association Inc.
                    Melbourne World Rice Festival 2021NXF Media Pty Ltd
                    Victorian Disability Sport and Recreation FestivalDisability Sport & Recreation
                    Bastille Day French FestivalBastille Day French Festival
                    Fox Footy Longest Kick 2021TLA Worldwide
                    Melbourne Japanese Summer FestivalJapanese Society of Melbourne

                    Tier 4

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    festival21Sandro Demaio Foundation
                    Little Food FestivalFederation Square
                    Lankanfest 2021Future Foundation for Kids
                    Melbourne Russian FestivalRussian Ethnic Representative Council
                    Melbourne International Student FestivalFederation Square
                    Spring FlingThe Centre: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne Inc.
                    Melbourne International Dumpling Festival (MIDF)Solangture Pty Ltd
                    Taste of Portugal 2021Comunidades de Lingua Portuguesa Inc.
                    South Asian Festival 2021Australia Bangladesh Cultural Exchange Inc.
                    Indian Festival 2021Beacon Holidays T/A Foodie Trails
                    Harmony FestivalMusicult Inc.
                    Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades Fan DayCricket Victoria
                    Northside Summer Festival 2021North West Melbourne Precinct Association
                    Movies Under The Stars at Yarra's EdgeMirvac Victoria Pty Ltd
                    Women in Music FestivalWomen in Music Festival
                    Finding EquanimityThe Equanimity Project (Australia) Ltd
                    Melbourne United Community DayMelbourne United Basketball
                    Spanish Language FiestaThe Centre: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne Inc.
                    Somali Day Australia FestivalSomali Community Inc.
                    Sri Lankan FestivalBeacon Holidays TA Foodie Trails
                    2021 Southbank Community DaySouthbank Residents Association

                    Recipients 2020

                    Tier 2

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Night Noodle MarketsFairfax Events and Entertainment
                    Lonsdale Street Greek FestivalGreek community of Melbourne
                    Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the KidsThe Herald and Weekly Times P/L

                    Tier 3

                    EventOrganisation / Applicant
                    Buddha's Day & Multicultural Festival 2020Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria Inc.
                    Victorian Festival of DiwaliCelebrate India Inc.
                    Run MelbourneSole Motive
                    2020 Women in Super Mother's Day ClassicMother's Day Classic Foundation
                    2020 Light Up Melbourne FestivalThe Association of Australian Sichuanese Inc.
                    Cultural Diversity Week - Victoria's Multicultural FestivalVictorian Multicultural Commission
                    Victorian Seniors FestivalDepartment of Health and Human Services
                    Melbourne Marathon FestivalInternational Management Group of America Ptd Ltd
                    Polish Festival @ Federation SquarePolish Festival Inc.
                    Melbourne Storm Community EventsMelbourne Storm
                    2020 Chinatown Melbourne Mid-Autumn FestivalChinatown Precinct Association Inc.
                    Truffle Melbourne Festival Weekend 2020Melbourne Truffle Festival Pty Ltd, Trading as Truffle Melbourne
                    Future EchoesVictorian Arts Centre Trust
                    Carlton Italian FestaCarlton Inc.
                    World Vegan DayWorld Vegan Day Melbourne
                    SalamFest Muslim Arts FestivalSalamFest Inc.
                    Netball Victoria and Melbourne Vixens Netball FestivalNetball Victoria
                    Melbourne Art WeekMelbourne Art Foundation
                    Olympics LiveAustralian Olympic Committee
                    Opera for the PeopleOpera Australia
                    Turkish Pazar FestivalMoreland Turkish Association Inc.
                    The Ethical Enterprise and Lifestyle Festival 2020Moral Fairground
                    Indian Film Festival of MelbourneMind Blowing Films Pty Ltd
                    Victorian Disability Sport and Recreation FestivalDisability Sport & Recreation
                    Law WeekVictoria Law Foundation
                    Wanderlust 108Wanderlust ANZ Pty Ltd
                    Bastille Day French FestivalBastille Day French Festival
                    Melbourne Rare Book WeekRare Books Melbourne Inc.
                    SalamFest Sufi FestivalSalamFest Inc.
                    Melbourne Japanese Summer FestivalJapanese Society of Melbourne
                    The Little Food FestivalFed Square Pty Ltd
                    Kensington Community FestivalUnison Housing
                    Nepal Festival MelbourneNon-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Victoria Australia
                    South Asian Festival 2020Australia Bangladesh Cultural Exchange Inc.
                    Taste of Portugal 2020Comunidades de Lingua Portuguesa Inc.
                    Ride2Work Day Community Breakfast 2020Bicycle Network

                    Contact us

                    To discuss any queries regarding the eligibility of your event, or the application process, please contact us via email.

                    Event Partnership Team
                    eventsponsorship@melbourne.vic.gov.au

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