Funding boost for local men’s sheds

APPLICATIONS have opened for the latest round of the state government’s Men’s Shed Funding Program, and Bellarine MP Alison Marchant is encouraging the community to apply.

Grants of up to $100,000 are available to the community to help build new men’s sheds – including the conversion of a building into a men’s shed – and refurbish, extend, or upgrade existing men’s sheds.

For the first time, funds are also available for the purchase of major machinery or equipment.

The program, which injects approximately $1 million into Victoria’s men’s sheds each year, recognises and supports the important role men’s sheds play in addressing social isolation and improving the health and wellbeing of men by providing them a safe space to connect and socialise.

“The Men’s Shed Funding Program supports the important work local men’s sheds do in contributing to the community and providing a welcoming place for locals to learn a new skill or meet new people,” Ms Marchant.

Activities and projects vary greatly between sheds and can range from community projects such as making toys for local childcare groups to assisting with emergency responses and preparedness.

There are more than 350 men’s sheds operating across Victoria, with an estimated 20,000 engaged members, including approximately four men’s sheds on the Surf Coast, and a further 11 in Greater Geelong.

The Ocean Grove and District Men’s Shed was one of the successful applicants in the last iteration of the funding program, securing $40,000 to replace the shed roof and solar panels at its site in Smithton Grove.

Applications for the Men’s Shed Funding Program will remain open until October 16, and to assist prospective applicants, online information sessions will be held on September 3 between 6pm and 7pm, and September 26 between 11am and 12 noon.

For more information on the grant program, or to apply, head to vic.gov.au/mens-shed-funding-program