Community Grants - the Direct Aid Program

Overview

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.

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, they cannot re-apply.

Activities that are aimed at achieving practical and tangible development outcomes 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.

Key dates for DAP 2025-26

Round 1: Opens 13 October 2025 and closes 31 October 2025

Round 2: Opens 9 February 2026 and closes 28 February 2026 

Key dates for DAP 2026-27

Round 1: Opens 17 August 2026 and closes 7 September 2026

Round 2: Opens 8 February 2027 and closes 1 March 2027

How to apply

Go to dap.smartygrants.com.au to register an account on the online system. After you have made an account, select the Tonga DAP round. Answer each application question according to the instructions provided.  Submit your application before applications close.

Click on the DAP Guidelines for more information.