Partnerships program for community benefit

MORE than $1.4m is being put into eight organisations and businesses by the City of Ballarat over the next three years to support projects that aim to benefit local residents.

Funding is being delivered through the council’s 2026–27 City Partnerships Program.

“These partnerships allow us to support initiatives that deliver positive community and economic outcomes for Ballarat, while helping achieve the priorities set out in our Council Plan,” deputy mayor Cr Ben Taylor said.

Organisations receiving funding include Ballarat Candles by Candlelight, Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute, Ballarat East Neighbourhood House, and Community Care Centre Ballarat (CCCB).

Commercial recipients are Ballarat Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Ballarat Marathon, Sovereign Hill and Ballarat Performing Arts Community.

Carols secretary Carolyn Bennett said the partnership provided financial stability.

“It gives us a real peace of mind because applying for money, going out to source sponsorships and community funding, it does take a lot of time,” she said.

“To actually know that now we’ve got our three years locked in, we can kind of relax on that a little bit and really focus on planning the event and making it great for the community.”

CCCB chair Gary Morgan said the city’s investment reflected a shared commitment to compassion, inclusion and environmental responsibility.

“It enables us to continue delivering dignity, reducing waste and strengthening the safety net for people doing it tough,” he said.

“This grant helps us to help others, and that is the essence of community.

“This partnership grant from the City of Ballarat is astute funding from the council, assisting the Community Care Centre Ballarat pay its warehouse rent.”