A grant application is easier to write when eligibility, evidence and project decisions are settled before drafting begins. Use this checklist as a preparation tool, then follow the program's own guidelines wherever they differ.
Eligibility and timing
- Confirm the program is open and record the closing time and time zone.
- Confirm the applicant entity, ABN, location and industry are eligible.
- Check minimum trading history, turnover and employee rules.
- Identify excluded activities and expenditure.
- Confirm whether spending before approval is prohibited.
- Record the required co-contribution and whether it must be cash.
Project definition
- State the problem in evidence-based terms.
- Define what the project will deliver.
- Identify the beneficiaries.
- Set measurable outputs and outcomes.
- Create realistic milestones and dates.
- Name the person responsible for delivery.
- Explain what happens after grant funding ends.
Evidence pack
- Supplier quotes or cost estimates
- Financial statements or management accounts if required
- Customer demand, waitlist or usage evidence
- Letters of support that add specific evidence
- Licences, permits, insurance and accreditations
- Team capability and relevant delivery history
- Project risks and mitigations
Budget checks
Every cost should connect to a project activity and an eligible expenditure category. Check arithmetic, GST treatment, quote validity, co-contribution and the difference between project cost and grant request.
Avoid unexplained round numbers. If the guidelines request a detailed budget, the narrative and budget should describe the same project.
Assessment criteria
Create a matrix with one row per criterion. Under each row, list the claim, evidence, source document, word limit and unresolved question. Draft to the published criteria rather than writing a general company story.
Final review
- Answer every mandatory field.
- Keep within word and attachment limits.
- Use consistent figures and dates throughout.
- Check that claims are supported by supplied evidence.
- Remove internal comments and placeholders.
- Obtain client or authorised-officer approval.
- Save the submitted version and confirmation receipt.
This checklist does not replace the program guidelines. The administering body's current rules are the final authority.