Introduction
The City of Logan Charitable Trust (CoLCT) supports grassroots charities delivering practical benefits for communities across the City of Logan in Queensland, Australia.
Its work connects local fundraising with community grants, helping charitable organisations strengthen wellbeing, resilience and social connection. Donations, sponsorships and community participation contribute to funding projects that respond to local needs.
History and Background
The Trust was established in 2017 as a public ancillary fund. Logan City Council created it as a beneficial enterprise, with the Trust operating as an independent legal entity for the city’s benefit.
Since its establishment, its board and supporters have developed its fundraising capacity and supported local charitable projects. This model brings together council connections, community involvement and charitable giving to build resources for future grants.
A milestone in its recent fundraising history was the return of the Mayor’s Charity Gala in 2026, the first gala hosted by the Trust since 2018. The event raised more than A$125,000 to support local charities.
Mission and Purpose
The Trust’s purpose is to support and enhance the Logan community. Its vision centres on generating positive community outcomes through grants backed by sustainable financial resources.
Its stated values are integrity, respect and transparency. These guide its emphasis on practical community needs, stronger local organisations and collaboration between charities, donors, council and other funding bodies.
Supported activities can include essential supplies, education assistance, wellbeing initiatives and programmes that strengthen community resilience and connection. The geographical focus is clear: funding should produce benefits within the City of Logan.
Governance and Structure
The Trust’s board provides governance and strategic direction. Its published leadership includes Dr John Gilmour as Chair and Mayoress Ali Raven as Deputy Chair, alongside directors Russell Postle, Stewart Fleming and Sheridan Webcke.
The Trust states that it is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and makes annual reporting and key documents available publicly.
Grant recipients must also account for their funding through an acquittal process. This involves financial evidence, project documentation and information about results. The process helps the Trust verify that money was used for its approved charitable purpose and informs future funding decisions.
Funding and Grants
How the Trust Raises Funds
The Trust accepts donations, event sponsorships, bequests and proceeds from workplace or community fundraising. These contributions build the grant pool available to local charities.
Its funding process links fundraising with grant applications, director assessment and subsequent reporting through project stories and acquittals. Donors can therefore contribute to a shared local funding mechanism supporting several charitable organisations.
October 2026 Grant Round
The current round offers up to A$10,000 per grant, with no minimum amount. The Trust notes that available funding is limited and only a small number of grants will be awarded.
Applications opened on 16 October 2026 and close at 5:00 p.m. on 2 November 2026. Funding decisions are scheduled by 5:00 p.m. on 16 November 2026.
Eligible organisations must operate within Logan or deliver outcomes there, benefit the local community, and hold DGR Item 1 status or apply through an auspicing organisation with that status. Applications should demonstrate genuine need, a realistic delivery plan, a clear budget and benefits that continue beyond the grant period.
Major Programs and Initiatives
Community Grantmaking
The Trust’s principal activity is funding projects delivered by local charities. Previous rounds have supported food security, education, domestic violence recovery and assistance for children in care.
In June 2024, it announced A$65,150 across seven charitable projects, illustrating the range of needs addressed through its grants.
Fundraising Events and Community Ambassadors
Events help replenish the grant fund and connect supporters with local charitable work. The 2026 Mayor’s Charity Gala combined sponsorship, auctions, raffles and community participation.
The Charity Ambassador Program supports awareness, fundraising and relationship building. Ambassadors represent the Trust at events and help connect it with businesses, community groups and potential sponsors.
Impact and Examples of Work Funded
The Trust’s published recipient records provide examples of both funding and reported delivery.
In 2025, Kids4Kids Foundation received A$6,000 and delivered 240 school packs to students in need, with support from 180 volunteers. Open Haven received A$5,000 towards case-worker salaries supporting women and children recovering from domestic and family violence.
Other awards included A$1,000 for Logan City Orchestras and A$5,000 for Empower Assistance Dogs to introduce therapy-dog activities in schools, aged-care facilities and community groups.
The 2026 recipient list also records A$10,000 each for The Buzz–Yarrabilba and Paper Cranes Children’s Foundation. These examples show the Trust’s reach across education, family support, inclusion and community wellbeing.
8. Conclusion
The City of Logan Charitable Trust gives donors, businesses and community members a way to support local charitable work through a shared grant fund. Its model combines fundraising, assessed applications and project reporting to connect generosity with practical community needs.
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