Grants open for community, environment initiatives

THE Surf Coast Shire’s latest round of grants opened at the start of this month, with thousands of dollars in support being offered.

Community Initiative and Natural Environment grants are open until March 31, with assessment in April.

Grants of up to $5,000 are available for community initiatives and up to $8,000 for environment projects, with the council working to protect and enhance local biodiversity.

Applicants must contribute a minimum of 30 per cent (cash or in-kind) towards the total project cost in both programs.

The council also adopted its revised Community Houses and Community Development policies at its February meeting.

Community Houses provide meeting places and hubs of learning for groups and individuals.

They are funded for 25 hours per week and they welcome all members of the community.

The shire supports five community houses in Anglesea, Deans Marsh, Lorne, Torquay and Winchelsea.

It will continue this support, which includes providing and maintaining the community house buildings, and a small annual financial contribution to each house as well as to the Neighbourhood Houses Barwon regional network.

Cr Tony Phelps said community houses made a huge impact.

“They recognise that people are experts in their own communities, so they offer a diverse range of activities and events that cater for locals and offer opportunities for them connect.

“We know through a Neighbourhood Houses Victoria report that community houses in our shire provided $4.2m of community value in 2023.

“This figure includes the value of improving quality of life through social connections, volunteer contributions, emergency relief, and other services such as early childhood education and care.”

The shire will also continue its support of community-led action in adopting the Community Development Policy, investing in programs and actions to support people to participate in and contribute to their community.

“Our grants program is one community-led approach, as we provide funding that empowers individuals and groups to use their skills and interests to make the Surf Coast a better place to live and visit,” Cr Phelps said.

“From town murals and community garden improvements, to sporting equipment and surfing festivals, it’s fantastic to see the various ways that we’ve played a small role in supporting the community to make a big difference, right across the shire.”

To apply for a grant, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/grants