What is the Direct Aid Program?
The Direct Aid Program (DAP) is a competitive, flexible small grants program funded by the Australian Government and managed by the Australian High Commission in Tonga. The DAP invites proposals up to $50,000 pa’anga that demonstrate a strong development focus and that complement the broader Tonga Australia relationship.
Who can Apply?
The DAP is available on a not-for-profit basis to community groups, NGOs and other entities conducting development activities in Tonga. International organisations and National Government Ministries are not eligible to apply. If a community organisation has received DAP funding before and did not successfully complete the activity, then they are not eligible to re-apply.
What activities are eligible for DAP Support?
Activities that are primarily aimed at achieving practical and tangible outcomes of high development impact are eligible to apply for the DAP. We favorably consider projects:
- that have a focus on gender equality, disability equity, environment and climate change, or income generation and livelihoods;
- that take place on the outer islands of Tonga;
- where applicants and communities make a significant co-contribution to the project;
- that have a clear plan for ongoing maintenance costs;
- that have a letter of support from relevant government representatives or community leader.
Organisations must have a focal point and an active bank account who can provide progress reports and financial acquittals to the High Commission. Your application must have a clear budget. Projects must have a timeframe of one year or less.
If you wish to discuss your proposal before submitting, please make an appointment with the DAP coordinator to discuss. You can contact them at daptonga@dfat.gov.au
We will generally NOT fund the following:
- cash prizes, micro-credit schemes or loans
- commercial ventures
- improvements to an individual’s house/land or purchase of major assets for individuals
- International travel or overseas study tours
- Routine or recurring operational costs or administrative expenses such as office rental, utility costs or staff salaries (including training/facilitation fees)
- payment for catering or meals
What kind of projects do we fund?
Almost anything! If a project is for the broader benefit of the community and has a tangible development outcome with a clear plan for the future then it’s the type of project we want to fund. We favour projects that have a focus on gender equality, disability equity, environment and climate change, or income generation and livelihoods. Projects that have strong community co-contributions or take place on the outer islands are more likely to be selected.
Do I have to provide a letter of support with my application?
It is not compulsory to provide a letter of support with your application. Please be aware that applications that have a letter of support provided by a relevant government representative or community leader will be given greater consideration. Relevant government representatives and community leaders include (but are not limited to) Members of Parliament, District Officers and Church leaders.
Does my community need to contribute?
Activities must demonstrate some sort of community contribution (funds or in-kind support). Applications with stronger community contributions will be given greater consideration.
Do I need to provide a quote?
Yes, if your activity proposes making a purchase. Where possible, provide 2-3 quotes for consideration with your application. Please note that applications must submit a budget for the activity. Applications that do not submit a budget will not be considered.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount for each proposal?
You can apply for any amount up to the maximum of $50,000 pa’anga.
How can funds be used?
The funds can only be utilised for purposes agreed upon by the applicant and the Australian High Commission. If the project changes as it is implemented, any reallocation funds of grant funds must be submitted to the Australian High Commission in writing for approval. Building or construction related projects should meet Australian and Tongan standards.
Can I submit a proposal that benefits just myself, my family or my business?
No, Projects must benefit the community or community members at large and cannot be used for profit by an individual or their own family. Any application that solely benefits an individual or an individual’s private business will not be considered.
How will you notify successful applicants?
All applicants will be notified via email of the outcome of their application within three weeks of the closing date.
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