The guide explains the objectives of each funding program, clarifies eligibility requirements, and outlines the assessment methodologies used to determine a school's need for educational facilities. It aims to help schools prepare high-quality, well supported applications, ensuring projects align with government priorities and demonstrate educational, financial, and strategic justification for capital assistance.

The guide is structured into three main parts: background to the capital grants programs, requirements and eligibility criteria, and a detailed explanation of the application process, including mandatory documentation, educational and building assessments, and financial evaluation. Appendices provide technical details such as construction rates, locality indices, and cost matrices.

The guide's role is to clarify expectations, standardise submissions, and support schools in demonstrating need, value for money, and compliance with relevant policies, thereby increasing the likelihood of a complete and accurate grant application.