Community grants program open

The eighth round of a Federal Government grants program for community groups closes this week, and a local MP is calling on eligible groups to get in touch.

Member for Hawke, Sam Rae, is calling on not-for-profit community organisations in Moorabool Shire, and across Hawke, to apply for a stronger community grant through the Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

Funding of between $2,500 and $20,000 is available to fund small capital projects that deliver social benefits and boost local community participation, including small-scale infrastructure upgrades, fit outs, and equipment purchases.

Expressions of Interest for projects in the Hawke Electorate must be received by Federal Member for Hawke Sam Rae by 5 pm on Friday 17 March 2023.

Mr Rae encouraged community groups in Hawke to apply, and get some funding to support their vital programs.

“Our communities across Hawke are powered by the local volunteers that keep our sport clubs, community groups and local emergency services running. That’s why we’re backing them in with the Stronger Communities Grants Program,” Mr Rae said.

“I’m fighting for local community groups by delivering the investment they need – helping them to grow and thrive.”

Once the Expressions of Interest from local community organisation have been received, the Hawke Grants Committee will select the projects that will progress to be nominated by Mr Rae to the Department overseeing the program.

One local project that has received funding from the program in the past is the Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigades’ Electronic Community Information Boards.

The Fire Brigade received a $6,850 Stronger Communities Grant in 2021 to fund the boards, replacing outdated manual signage with the modern, weatherproof LED boards at the Bacchus Marsh and Darley Fire Stations.

Successful grantees will be notified as soon as their grant is approved by the Department, allowing them to start their projects as soon as they are ready.

To lodge an Expression of Interest, visit www.samraeforhawke.com.au/stronger-community-grants/.