Submissions are now open for round two of the Central Highlands Regional Council community grants program, with $165,000 up for grabs across three grant categories.
The program supports a diverse range of groups and not-for-profit organisations operating in the region.
Mayor Kerry Hayes said that successful submissions will receive grants of up to $5,000 for community assistance and sport and recreation, and up to $20,000 for community improvement.
‘The kinds of projects we’re looking for foster community engagement, connection and participation, arts and cultural development, community pride, or programs that bring our communities together to improve our wellbeing,’ he said.
‘Some community groups need financial assistance to purchase equipment or to improve facilities, while others may need help to get a community event off the ground.’
Mayor Hayes said the program is a vital investment in projects that contribute to the region’s strong and vibrant communities and liveability.
‘I strongly encourage community groups to apply and look forward to seeing the projects come to life.’
Council’s community grants program has provided more than $1.76 million in assistance to local community groups and organisations since the program was launched in 2009.
Submissions for round two of the program are now open and close at 5.00 pm on 31 August 2022. All submissions will be notified of the outcome of their application by mid-October 2022. Application forms and guidelines are available online here.
As a result of community feedback, council has implemented the SmartyGrants online application platform to make the application and acquittal process even easier. The community can now save applications to go back to, share a login across an organisation and access previous applications that were lodged.