Hobart — Community services & programs

Getting to community hubs and using services

Hobart City Council runs a wide range of community programs across the city. Many activities are delivered from community hubs and partner venues, including services aimed at older people, young people and culturally diverse communities. If you need help with access or information in a different format, the council provides accessibility support; contact details for the Accessible City contact are published by the council.

What the programs cover and who they suit

Programs are organised around clear priorities: truth and reconciliation with Aboriginal people, increasing access and participation, knowledge and wellbeing, and resilience and safety. That means there are offerings for people of all ages and backgrounds. Examples include Aboriginal cultural programs, LGBTIQA+ inclusion work, multicultural activities, youth programs, community gardens, and positive ageing services at hubs such as Mathers House and Criterion House.

Suitability varies by program. Some activities are community drop-ins and open to anyone, while others are targeted or have eligibility criteria. Check the program description before you plan to attend so you know whether it is geared to families, older adults, young people or people requiring specialist supports.

Grants, funding and preparing an application

The council operates a range of grant streams to support community groups and projects. Programs include community grants, creative and event grants, heritage and urban sustainability grants, business support programs and sponsorship opportunities. The council also offers quick response funding and in-kind venue support for smaller projects.

Quick response grants have a published maximum value for small projects and there are named grant categories for events and creative work. The council publishes guidance for applicants and can provide help preparing applications through a grants contact point. Grant rounds and eligibility details can change, so check current rounds and requirements before preparing an application.

Permits, events and volunteering

If you plan to busk or stage a public event, check the council's permit and street performance requirements. There are specific permit processes for busking and street performance, and the council provides advice on venues and promotions for community events. Event grants and sponsorship are available for eligible festivals and activities.

Volunteering is supported across many programs. The council recognises the role volunteers play and often provides pathways for community members to contribute to local projects. If you are interested in volunteering, see the relevant program listing to understand expectations and any screening or training requirements.

Resilience, safety and homelessness work

The council runs initiatives that support emergency preparedness and community resilience. There is a Resilient City approach that encourages being prepared to reduce the impact of emergencies. The council also publishes actions and programs related to housing affordability and homelessness, aiming to address local needs through partnerships and targeted projects.

If you are visiting for resilience forums or sensitive community consultations, check whether sessions have any special conditions or require prior registration.

Access, communication and interpreter services

The council says it can provide information in different formats and will respond to access queries. An Accessible City contact is listed for questions about physical access and alternative information formats. Interpreter services are available through the standard national telephone interpreting service; follow the council’s published instructions to arrange an interpreter for phone contact.

Before attending a venue or event, check whether the location is accessible for mobility, hearing or vision needs, and confirm what adjustments can be made.

Practical checks before you go or apply

• Confirm program times, venue and whether the session requires booking. Details and availability can change, so always check current listings.
• If you need accessible formats or support, contact the council's accessibility contact before your visit.
• For non-English speakers, arrange an interpreter using the published interpreter service telephone process when you make enquiries.
• If you intend to apply for a grant, verify the open grant rounds, categories and eligibility; the council can assist with application preparation.
• For street performances or events, check permit requirements and any relevant conditions for public spaces.
• If you are attending resilience planning or homelessness-related consultations, check whether pre-registration or assessment of suitability is required.

How to plan a visit or get involved

Decide what you want from the program: an occasional activity, ongoing participation, volunteering or project funding. Use the council's program listings to find contact points for each service. If you have accessibility needs, make contact ahead of time to confirm what supports are available and any site-specific arrangements.

Planning ahead will help you select the right program, meet eligibility requirements, prepare funding applications if relevant and ensure the venue meets your access needs.