Grant Projects

2025 Grants Round

Applications closed on 7 March 2025. Successful projects will commence from July 2025.

You can Contact Us at any time. We are here to help!

If you are thinking of applying, we encourage you to speak with us in advance. The Grants Team is available to help, including providing feedback on your project idea and answering any questions you have.

See our 2024 grantees on our Projects Page.

What is Foxtel Play?

Foxtel Play is a subscription video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch video entertainment online. Key information about this provider includes:

The service is operated by Foxtel, Australia’s largest pay television provider
The content is largely a selection of videos aired on Foxtel’s pay television service.

How can I join and play videos using Foxtel Play?

To join Foxtel Play, you will need a credit or debit card.

Go to the Foxtel Play website
Select the ‘Get your 2 week free trial now’ button
Follow the on-screen prompts

Note: If you do not want to be charged for using the Foxtel service, you will need to cancel before the end of your 2-week free trial.

To watch Foxtel Play, you will need a device that is:

Connected to the internet
Capable of running a web browser or a Foxtel Play app

Devices can include:

Smart TV
Game console
Smartphone or tablet
Desktop or laptop computer

Specific information can be found on the Foxtel Play home page.

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.

In addition, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has produced the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 to make sure that creators of web and app content can include accessibility features such as captions, audio description and an accessible interface for assistive technology users. A simplified version of this standard is also available.

How accessible is Foxtel Play?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

Closed captions are currently not available on this Foxtel service.
Audio described content is currently not available on this Foxtel service.
The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Foxtel Play?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Foxtel Play to maximise your accessibility:

Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features
Watch Foxtel pay television instead: the broadcast channels of Foxtel provide closed caption content, and as such this may be a better alternative than the streaming service if there are specific shows you enjoy that are only available on Foxtel.

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

There are a number of different subscription video on demand services available to consumers, and these services offer different accessible content. With most services offering some form of free trial, it may be worth testing a service to determine which one works best for you. In addition to this tip sheet, Curtin University has also created tip sheets for Stan, Presto, Quickflix and Netflix Australia.

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

If you are unable to find or play a video due to accessibility issues, there are a number of steps you can take to voice your concerns. Please refer to the Video on Demand Subscription Services: Accessibility and Your Consumer Rights tip sheet created by Curtin University as part of this series or follow the links in the help section below.

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Foxtel Play, you can go to Foxtel Play Support. There are also opportunities for consumers to discuss service issues.

The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.

We strongly encourage prospective applicants to phone or email ACCAN's grants team to discuss your project idea. Remember, applications are assessed independently, so we are able to help you develop your idea and hone it appropriately for the ACCAN Program. We're also available for any other questions you might have about ACCAN Grants.

Phone: 02 9288 4000

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Or via the National Relay Service

Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)

This project progresses research funded by ACCAN (2021) which analysed digital inequalities amongst public housing residents. That project revealed the pivotal role neighbourhood centres play in digital skill acquisition and troubleshooting for people who face barriers to being digitally included. This project analyses work and learning practices of neighbourhood centre staff and students and will create insights into 1) best practice in personalised digital skill training 2) barriers to digital access that inform need for skill acquisition and troubleshooting. Findings will assist neighbourhood centres to optimise their teaching and assist telecommunications companies to address barriers that impede access.

ACCAN is committed to best serving telecommunications consumers by administering a high quality Grants Program that is responsive to consumer needs. We have a two-stage application process, with only Streams depending on the type of work you are planning to do.

What is Presto?

Presto is a subscription video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch video entertainment online. Subscription options consist of just TV shows, just movies or both TV shows and movies. Key information about this provider includes:

Presto is operated as a joint venture between Foxtel and Seven West Media.
Presto features some streaming content from Foxtel as well as content from other sources.
Subscriptions are monthly and can be cancelled at any time.
Movie-only and TV show-only subscriptions are available for a cheaper price than a subscription to both movies and TV shows.

How can I join and play videos using Presto?

To join Presto, you will need a credit or debit card.

Go to the Presto website
Select the ‘Start the one month free trial now’ button
Follow the on-screen prompts

Note: If you do not want to be charged for using Presto, you will need to cancel before the end of your one-month free trial.

To watch Presto, you will need a device that is:

Connected to the internet
Capable of running a web browser or a Presto app

Devices can include:

Smart TV
Game console
Smartphone or tablet
Desktop or laptop computer

Specific information can be found on the Presto Devices page

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.

How accessible is Presto?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

Closed captions are currently not available on Presto.
Audio described content is currently not available on Presto.
The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Presto?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Presto to maximise your accessibility:

Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features
Participate in Presto discussion forums to request closed captions: there are some discussions taking place by consumers requesting closed captions.

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Presto, you can go to the Presto Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and contact information page.
The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.

ACCAN Grants Program Banner - Woman researching at library The Panel assesses applications to ACCAN's Independent Grants Program and recommends the strongest applications to the ACCAN Board for funding. The Panel is an important part of ensuring the independence and rigour of the Grants Program process.

What is Quickflix?

Quickflix is a video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch subscription or premium streaming video entertainment online. Key information about this provider includes:

Quickflix is one of Australia’s longest established video streaming companies.
The video streaming service can consist of either subscription service or a premium pay-as-you-go service.
Physical discs, such as Blu-ray and DVD titles, are also available for rent.

How can I join and play videos using Quickflix?

To join Quickflix, you will need a credit or debit card.

Go to the Quickflix website
Select the plan you wish to purchase.
Follow the on-screen prompts.

In addition, searches for Quickflix in Google can reveal bonus offers. There are also offers on the Quickflix site.

To watch Quickflix, you will need a device that is:

Connected to the internet
Capable of running a web browser or a Quickflix app

Devices can include:

Smart TV
Game console
Streaming media player
Smartphone or tablet
Desktop or laptop computer

Specific information can be found on the Quickflix Device page.

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.

How accessible is Quickflix?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

Closed captions are available on some videos if the distributor provides it.
Audio description is not available.
The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Quickflix?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Quickflix to maximise your accessibility:

Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features
Use physical discs instead: due to Quickflix having limited captioned content and its difficulty in identifying accessible titles, it may be worth exploring Quickflix’s Blu-ray and DVD titles to locate the captioned or audio described movie you are seeking on a physical disc.

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Quickflix, you can go to:

Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)

Online Safety Codes require social media platforms to build safety features that empower users to protect themselves from technology-facilitated abuse. However, 42% of Australians agree that existing safety features are inadequate, leaving women and gender-diverse users most vulnerable. ACCAN’s submission to the Codes recommends involving end-consumers early on to produce consumer-centric outcomes.

This project investigates how women and gender-diverse users engage with safety features on social media, to identify their strengths/limitations. Following “Safety by Design” principles, the project will collaborate with users, designers and policymakers, to produce consumer-centric recommendations to proactively design online safety mechanisms that address vulnerable consumers’ safety expectations.

ACCAN Grants Program Banner - Woman researching at library ACCAN is committed to best serving telecommunications consumers by administering a high quality Grants Program that is responsive to consumer needs. We have a two-stage application process, with only Streams depending on the type of work you are planning to do.

Choose your Stream
Expression of Interest stage
Expression of Interest form
Full Application stage
What should I put in the budget?
Accessibility
Top Tips
Additional resources

First, choose your Stream

You can apply under one of two Streams:

1. Research Stream

Choose this Stream if your proposed project is predominantly research.

2. Education and Representation Stream

Choose this Stream if your proposed project is predominantly consumer education and/or representation.

The lead applicant MUST be from the community sector, or demonstrate strong and genuine community sector partnership.

Expression of Interest stage

Expressions of Interest are completed via a shortened application form and assessed according to the Guidelines by the Independent Grants Panel.

Step 1 - Read the Guidelines and Strategic Plan.

Step 2 - Create a rough draft of your project idea.

Step 3 - Contact the grants team to review the idea and get advice on whether it is likely to be considered eligible:

Email: grants @ accan.org.au

Call: 02 9288 4000

Or contact us through the National Relay Service

Step 4 - Complete the Expression of Interest form on the SmartyGrants application portal. (You will need to register for a SmartyGrants account if you don't already have one.)

Step 5 - Submit your application online by the due date stated in the Guidelines. Late applications will not be accepted. Note that closing times are in Australian Eastern times.

Expression of Interest form

Download a sample copy of the EOI application form below. Use this to help prepare your application offline or with a team.

Do NOT submit this sample form. All applications MUST be submitted online via the SmartyGrants application portal.

The 2024 application form will be shared here when the round opens. It is expected to be similar to last year's:

Download: 2023 ACCAN Grants EOI Form - sample.docx 88.81 KB

Full Application Stage

If your Expressions of Interest is successful, you will be invited to submit a Full Application, also via SmartyGrants. Use the same login details as you used at the EOI stage.

A Word version of the application form will be provided below. As with your EOI, you cannot submit this sample form. You must submit your application online via the SmartyGrants application portal.

Download: 2023 ACCAN Grants Full Application form.docx105.97 KB (2024 application form will be provided after the round opens)

We strongly encourage all Full Application stage applicants to consult the Guidelines and to contact the ACCAN Grants Team to discuss your application to ensure it is eligible and competitive. Please note that answers in the Full Application form do not have to match those given at the EOI stage - applicants are able to change their answers to strengthen their applications by adding further detail, clarifying any areas, or adjusting approach. The amount requested can also be adjusted, though any substantive change should be justified.

Supporting documents

If the Assessment Panel needs more information such as annual reports or other documents, they will request it. They do not need to be uploaded at the time you make the application.

What should I put in the budget?

You are required to submit a budget with your application. You must think of all the income components from every source. You must think of, and reasonably estimate, each cost (expense) necessary for your project.

Income and expenditure need to add up to the same amount: you can't spend more than the project receives, and you can't spend less either.

Income

The income table is a summary of all other sources of funding you will be using for this project (e.g. if your organisation is contributing cash or in-kind support). If you have another grant for this project, show that grant in the list. Each source should be listed separately. Make sure your Total Income is the same amount as Total Expenditure. These two figures need to equal each other.

Expenses

In the expenses table, list all costs directly associated with the project. You may need to buy or rent equipment, fund a research worker, pay for travel, printing, or even room hire. Think through all the things you will need to make your project a success. If you have included in-kind in the income, then make sure you include it as part of the total expenditure. Expenditure is the list of things that are expended as part of the project.

Only include travel that is absolutely necessary for your project, and this needs to be well justified. Simply presenting results at a conference is not sufficient justification as the activities must form an integral part of the project.

Will ACCAN fund overheads?

ACCAN won't fund overheads, such as administration levies, general office space and so on. We do not cover normal operating costs for an organisation to do its business either. Check the complete list of exclusions in the Guidelines. The grant program funds clearly defined projects and project activity towards specific outputs.

We do cover all costs that are directly attributable to the project itself, e.g. project labour, project management, project accounting, or even office space and room hire if it can be justified as directly attributable to the project.

It all depends on how clearly the cost is related to the project - If you were not doing this project would the cost still exist? If yes, then we will not cover it. Is it an arbitrary levy added by your organisation on top of the project? If yes, we won't cover it. We only cover costs for activities inside the project.

Do I include GST?

No. All amounts you put in the budget should exclude GST. If you are successful, GST will be paid in addition to the amount you apply for.

Accessibility

All resources produced under the Grants Program need to conform to basic accessibility principles. This means that:

all documents, images and webpages are accessible to screen readers ie. You are using alt text on images and Heading Styles are consistent

digital resources such as videos contain captions and audio description, or a transcript.

Ensure your application demonstrates your plan for this, or if some resources are intended to not be made accessible, your justification. ACCAN staff can provide guidance before you apply.

If you are funded, ACCAN will meet with you early in your project to confirm your plans for accessibility. We have accessibly-formatted templates that we can share with you for writing reports, or if you will be using a graphic designer or web developer without experience in accessibility, we can highlight the key design features they’ll need to consider.

Download our basic instructions on how to make documents accessible:

Download: How to make documents accessible.docx4.02 MB

Top Tips

Ensure your project fits: Is it really a telecommunications project? Does it satisfy one of the listed priorities? Read the Guidelines well, and contact us to discuss your project idea.
Write in clear, simple English: avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Say exactly what you're going to do.
Be specific: Rather than "a large number of consumers will benefit" say "150 consumers in the Armidale community will access tailored digital literacy training programs."
Balance your budget: Income needs to equal expenditure. Include all cash and in-kind contributions. Be realistic about what time and resources you will need. This shows you have thought things through.
Demonstrate that you understand the context for your project - what gap are you filling in terms of the research and other work that already exists? Check other published work, including ACCAN's research, and government bodies such as communications regulators.
Clearly explain how your project differs from other related projects that exist. This is particularly important for projects involving cyber-safety and digital literacy training. This is because the Australian government and other not-for-profits are addressing these issues through various training programs. If you see a gap or a limitation to these resources, explain why and how your project is addressing a significant gap. Ensure you refer to the ACCAN resources already available. If you are developing new materials, how will they complement what's already 'out there'?
Clearly explain the future your project will have after our funding ceases. Do you expect the work to continue in any way? What provisions have you included in your planning to ensure this can happen?
Look through our previous grants projects to get a better understanding of what and who we fund.

Additional resources

Tips for writing applications and avoiding common grant-writing mistakes: https://www.fundingcentre.com.au/help/writing-grant
GrantEd guides to writing applications: https://thegrantedgroup.thinkific.com/
How to harness your advocacy skills for best results: https://www.communitiesincontrol.com.au/cic/take-control/
Other grants from the Commonwealth: www.communitygrants.gov.au

Start
Prev
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Next
End