FAQs
We understand just how busy you are in your day-to-day function as an educator and have tried to make the application process as seamless as possible. Before starting the application process, we encourage you to take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions and TIP Toolkit to give you the best possible chance of impressing our judging panel and receiving a 2025 TIP grant.
FAQs
To be eligible for a TIP grant, your initiative must be a new idea, program and/or method of teaching that supports enhanced student learning outcomes.
Your initiative will fall under one of the following categories:
For the purposes of TIP, a teaching initiative is not:
The purchase of computers and software - however, the development of software to be used by students and/or staff will be considered.
Payment of wages for personnel.
The introduction of a program that is in place at another school or institution.
A share of $50,000 in funding for education-related initiatives. The amount granted depends on the requirements of each initiative.
In 2026, Bank First Members will be eligible to apply for up to $4,000 per project. Non-Bank First Members will be eligible to apply for up to $2,000 per project.
The People’s Choice Award is an extra funding boost for a TIP project that the public votes for.
In 2026, TIP applications who did not initially receive a grant will be put forward for the People’s Choice Award with the opportunity to receive $2,000 in funding.
The project with the most People’s Choice votes will receive $2,000 for their TIP project.
All voting will be via the Bank First website. Anyone can vote for your project – they don’t have to be a Bank First Member. We encourage you to think about how you can promote voting for your project using your usual communication channels.
School newsletter
Social media – post and encourage your followers to share
Email communication to parents/carers
Local media
The TIP judging panel reviews all applications and selects successful applications based on their level of innovation, student welfare benefits and support of student learning outcomes.
Applications close at 11.59pm AEST on 28 May 2026.
All applicants, whether successful or not, will be notified via email 15 June 2026 .
Successful applicants will also be posted on our website and on social media.
Your grant will be transferred to your school bank account shortly after recipients are announced.
Your local Relationship Officer will arrange a visit to your school/preschool to present your TIP certificate in Term 3. A presentation to all staff will also be conducted, either at a staff meeting or during the school day.
This is a great opportunity to promote your innovative project and Bank First will discuss with you how we can share your TIP success and the benefits to your school community more broadly.
Grant recipients are responsible for ensuring funds are spent as described in the application form.
Educators and schools are invited to submit an entry even if they have been successful in previous years. If your entry is innovative, original and benefits students, we’d love to receive it.
