Stockland has announced the launch of its annual CARE Grants program for 2021, inviting groups to apply for funding to support local infrastructure, programs and opportunities.

This year, Stockland will award up to $300,000 to eligible organisations countrywide in an effort to help foster thriving communities now and into the future.

Amy Hogan, National Manager of Group Sustainability at Stockland, said Stockland understands this past year has been particularly challenging for not-for-profits and local organisations with the bushfires and COVID-19.

"We and are pleased to be able to recognise and support some of those in our communities who make positive changes in the places where they live, work, shop and play," she said.

Since 2014, the Stockland CARE Grants program has distributed more than $1.7 million in funding to more than 1,500 local community groups across the country.

Past recipients have included environmental groups, animal care and welfare groups, local charities, primary and high schools seeking additional funds to launch special, community based programs, as well as a host of local sporting, special interest, seniors and social clubs.

Ms Hogan said Stockland had a long-standing commitment to working with communities through its retail town centres, retirement living villages and residential communities across Australia.

"We're passionate about our purpose of creating 'a better way to live' and working with communities to build vibrant and thriving places," she said.

Organisations seeking funding are encouraged to apply for a CARE Grant through their local Stockland Shopping Centre, Residential Community or Retirement Living Village or by visiting stockland.com.au/caregrants.

Stockland's CARE Grants program is accepting entries until 5pm on Friday, March 12.

Community groups will be selected based on a range of criteria relating to Stockland's key community and environmental focus areas and their proximity to Stockland assets.