South Australian schools are invited to apply for funding through the 2026 School Impact Program, with Credit Union SA continuing its long-term commitment to supporting education across the state.
Now in its third year, the program offers grants between $2,000 and $20,000 to help schools deliver projects that enhance student wellbeing, improve learning outcomes and upgrade school facilities. Open to public, Catholic and independent schools across South Australia, the initiative is designed to ease the financial pressure often placed on school communities.
The School Impact Program forms part of Credit Union SA’s broader pledge to inject $1 million into South Australian schools over 10 years. Already, the program is tracking ahead of its target, having awarded $230,000 in funding across its first two years.
Chief Executive Officer Todd Roberts said the program continues to create meaningful outcomes for students and educators alike.
“Access to quality education and supportive learning environments plays a critical role in helping young people thrive,” he said.
“Through the School Impact Program, we are proud to support initiatives that make a real difference for students, teachers and wider school communities.”
Real impact in local schools
In 2025 alone, 25 schools across South Australia shared in $100,000 of funding, with a focus on supporting communities impacted by drought conditions.
Projects funded through the program highlight the diversity of ideas coming from local schools. At Orroroo Area School, funding helped create a bike track designed for both students and the wider community, while Christies Downs Primary School developed an “Imaginarium” learning space to encourage creativity, imagination and self-regulation.
Roberts said the growing number and quality of applications reflects the innovation happening across the education sector.
“We have been incredibly impressed by the innovation, thought and care that schools put into their applications, and as we enter our third year, we are excited to see how schools continue to identify projects that support both educational outcomes and student wellbeing.”
How to apply
Applications for the 2026 School Impact Program are now open and can be submitted online until 2 July 2026. Schools will be shortlisted, with final assessments taking place later in the year.
Applications are reviewed by an independent selection committee made up of Credit Union SA representatives and members from the Department for Education, ensuring funding is directed to projects that will have the greatest impact.
For more information or to apply, visit: https://www.creditunionsa.com.au/community/school-impact-program
Follow KIDDO on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter
