Funding Opportunities for Council Risk Initiatives: Making the Most of Grants 

CivicRisk Mutual offers our members a multitude of grants, funding and professional development opportunities to strengthen risk management initiatives and help protect our local communities. 

Let’s explore what funding is available and how you can make the most of the grants available.

Risk Enhance Program

Each year members have access to funding grants of $20,000 for initiatives addressing risk management issues identified by the CRIP program, for projects that assist in maturing their risk management practices, and/or mitigating risks that impact lines of insurance within our general insurance program. Workers Comp and WHS are not covered in lines of Insurance. Examples include Code of Conduct training, contractor management and cyber risk assessments

How Does This Help Your Council?

The program empowers members by providing access to crucial funding that may not be readily available within their council budgets. This not only facilitates the implementation of vital risk management initiatives but also enables us to showcase the proactive measures our members take to mitigate and reduce risks. 

When it comes to insurance renewals, this evidence of effective risk management significantly strengthens our position and highlights the outstanding efforts undertaken by our members. Here are some common questions we receive about the funding: 

• What is the annual amount of funding available for Risk Enhance initiatives?

The annual amount of funding available is $20,000.

• What is the maximum amount of funding available for risk enhancement initiatives?

The maximum amount of funding available is $40,000 over two years.

• What is the deadline for using the funds?

The deadline for using the funds is 30 June each year. 

Risk Enhance: Begin by Identifying Projects

In a nutshell, the Risk Enhance Program supports you in achieving the risk mitigation standards needed to protect your communities. The first step to securing funding is choosing a suitable project. Below, we’ve got some tips to help you decide where you could direct your attention: 

• Mitigate risks: Identify eligible projects that align with the Continuous Risk Improvement Program (CRIP) recommendations, or that mitigate specific risks identified in previous audits or assessments.
• Reduce claims: Focus on projects that reduce common claims your council makes or lower your insurance contributions.
• Improve staff and community safety: Select initiatives that improve staff and community safety, such as workshops and training.
• Keep budget in mind: Ensure you can finalise the project within the $20,000 per year funding limit and the specified timeframe.
• Collaborate with reputable suppliers: Choose a reputable supplier and decide on your preferred payment method: reimbursement or direct invoicing.

Ultimately, it’s a good idea to prioritise initiatives that enhance risk mitigation, reduce claims, lower contributions and provide a safer environment for the community. 

What Is the Risk Enhance Application Process Like?

The Risk Enhance Program involves several steps from conception to completion. Here’s a snapshot of the steps involved. 

1. Identify potential projects: Ensure your projects align with CRIP or risk mitigation needs.
2. Complete the application: Fill out the application form, found in the Member Portal, with project details, service provider information, cost, timeframes and your funding request. 
3. Apply to CivicRisk Mutual: Send your application with supporting project details to CivicRisk Mutual.
4. Await approval: Wait for approval and provide additional information if requested.
5. Initiate the project: Upon approval, initiate the project with your chosen service provider. Complete the project within the specified timeframe and budget.
6. Request reimbursement: Once you finalise the project, it’s time to request reimbursement from CivicRisk Mutual.

Best Practices for Managing Grants

While our goal is to support all member councils with risk mitigation initiatives, not all applications are successful. The following best practices can help increase your chances of streamlined approval:

Send Completed Applications

Avoid submitting incomplete or inaccurate applications, as this can lead to delays or rejection. Applications may be unsuccessful if they don’t meet eligibility criteria, lack necessary supporting information or have unclear objectives.

Communicate Effectively

If any changes to your application or project execution arise, document the shifts and communicate with CivicRisk Mutual as early as possible. Our team is here to help you manage unexpected challenges. 

Be Mindful of Budget and Time Constraints

Provide any supporting documents promptly and monitor the project rigorously during execution. This helps ensure you complete projects on time and within budget. 

What Other Funding and Training Programs Are Available?

Besides Risk Enhance funding, CivicRisk Mutual offers other development and training opportunities for councils to enhance their risk protection. These include:

• Risk and claims training: These sessions focus on emerging risks, trending claims and protection program advice.
• Bespoke training: Onsite or remote training sessions provide development sessions that address members’ specific needs. 
• Study assistance: Offering up to $5,000 per year, this grant supports employees in obtaining relevant risk management or insurance qualifications.

Make the Most of Grants To Enhance Risk Resilience

Staying proactive is the best way to mitigate risks and improve community resilience. CivicRisk Mutual provides significant funding and development opportunities to help members reduce risk exposure and support their locales. 

To apply for funding or training, visit the Member Portal or get in touch with our team today.