Federal Department of Social Services

The Federal Department of Social Services funds many organisations delivering services in Australia. A new Streamlined Grant Agreement was provided to many organisations that were successful in being offered funding by DSS in early 2015.

The whole agreement between DSS and the funded organisation is made up of a number of documents. Organisations will need to refer to their offer to ascertain which documents apply to them. Documents could include:

• agreement letter
• grant schedule
• general conditions, and
• supplementary terms.

Organisations should seek independent legal advice about the terms and practical implications of the agreement.  

The fact sheet below provides guidance on some of the important terms to be aware of for funded organisations. The fact sheet will make more sense if you read it with your grant documents at hand. It includes information on:

• what the DSS Streamlined Grant Agreement is and important terms in the Agreement
• when written notification is required under the Agreement, and
• record and reporting requirements and tips to assist organisations to be prepared for operating under the Agreement.