Boating Safety and Facilities Program - Frequently asked questions
Information on this page
General questions
Can we apply for projects that are already underway?
No, projects shouldn't be started until our approval letter has been received by the applicant and the Minister has publicly announced the successful applicants. Projects cannot be funded retrospectively.
Will you pay funds in advance?
Yes – a portion of the funded amount may be paid on awarding of the grant. Successful applicants will be advised of the payment schedule at the time they are awarded their grant. The grants team can give you more information.
Will you pay 100 percent of project costs?
For Aids to Navigation we can pay 100 per cent of the procurement cost, plus a further 10 per cent towards the cost of installation. Search and rescue training is also funded at 100 per cent in recognition of the time and dedication already shown by the volunteers who are providing their services. In all other categories we can pay up to 80 per cent of project costs.
Can we claim GST?
If your organisation is registered for GST your claim can exceed the grant amount by up to 10 percent to reflect the GST paid.
If you are not registered for GST the grant amount covers the project costs excluding GST and cannot be exceeded. You should bear this in mind when applying.
How do I claim the grant?
This is dependent upon the nature of the project. You should speak to the grants team for more information.
When can I start my project?
Projects should only be started after the Minister has publicly announced the successful applicants.
What happens if the scope of my project changes?
You should complete a Project Variation Application Form (obtainable from the grants team). The proposed new project will need to fit within the same category as the original application.
What's the process after applications have closed?
The applications are assessed by a number of panels and then recommendations are made to the Minister. All applicants are then advised by mail of the outcome of their application. Successful applicants will be asked to sign a Funding Agreement.
What if we receive a grant but can't carry out the project?
Recipients can cancel their grant at any time by advising the Department of Transport (DOT) in writing. If any advance payments have been made these would need to be returned to DOT. Recipients can apply under future programs.
If I'm unsuccessful can I apply for the same project in a future round?
Yes, but it would be advisable to consider the reasons for the application failing. Unsuccessful applicants are given a brief description of the reasons for declining an application. If requested, a Grants Project Officer will make time available to discuss ways to improve the application for resubmission in a future round.
How will I know when the next grants round is open for applications?
The grants team has a mailing list of all those organisations that have expressed an interest in being notified of the opening of a grants rounds. To add your organisation to the mailing list email your details here
Boating Facilities
Will the BSFP pay for fishing platforms?
No – the program is aimed at recreational boating use. Alternative programs are run by other State (Department of Primary Industries – Fisheries) and Federal (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) departments which may be more appropriate.
Will you fund projects on the Murray River (such as NSW waters)?
Yes, as long as the boating facility and the applicant are based in Victoria.
Can we apply for project management expenses?
Internal project management expenses are not eligible for funding under the BSFP
Aids to Navigation questions
Can we apply for Navigation Aids if we are not the waterway manager?
No – applications under this category should come from the relevant waterway manager.