Key projects could earn council windfall

Community groups are encouraged to apply for the second round of Council’s Community Partnership Grants Program – a program that is now open.

Formerly known as Greater Grants, the program has been rebranded to better reflect the opportunities the grants offer the Southern Grampians Community.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor David Robertson (pictured) said Community Partnership Grants provide the perfect opportunity for Southern Grampians community groups to access much needed financial support to start key projects.

“Last year, Council reviewed the Grants Policy which has been updated to provide further clarity to community groups around eligibility, conflict of interest, and importantly the application and assessment process,”

Cr Robertson said. “Categories remain the same with applications submitted for projects over $2,500 still needing to demonstrate financial capacity to match in kind contributions. “Each year, Council delivers almost $200,000 in financial support via our grants program to community groups to support initiatives, events and projects that contribute to making our region more liveable for residents.

“Like the Greater Grants program, our Community Partnership Grants still offer a broad range of categories including Community Infrastructure, Arts and Cultural Development, Community Strengthening, Tourism and Events, Environmental Sustainability, and Heritage. “The program is always very popular so if you or your community group have an idea that will make a difference within the community and need some support – have a read through the eligibility criteria and guidelines on our website and contact our Community Development and Engagement Team to discuss further.”

Council’s Community Partnership Grants program offers eligible community groups to access up to $15,000 per financial year for initiatives, events and projects that directly benefit the Southern Grampians Shire. Applications for more than $2,500 must demonstrate cash or in-kind contributions and must provide evidence of cash held, or must be able to demonstrate their financial capacity.

Eligibility criteria and information on how to apply, including the full guidelines and application form (once open) are available on Council’s grants page http://www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au/grants or by contacting Customer Service on (03)5573 0444. Applications close 4pm Friday, February 24.