Community grants closing date extended

Photo: Jim Dunn (left) and Stephen Walker, Ararat Bowls Club committee members, in their new kitchen that was upgraded thanks to an ARCC community grant.

Community and sports groups have an extra month to apply for this round of Ararat Rural City Council’s Community Grants Program.

Applications for the program will now close on March 29, extended from the end of February to give community groups and organisations more time to develop their projects and applications.

Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the grants provide funding for projects and activities that build healthy, vibrant communities and sustain important community infrastructure.

Dr Harrison said the program also aims to encourage community groups to work together to share and benefit from community resources.

“Groups can apply for grants of up to $20,000 with matching funding for infrastructure projects, or up to $1000 for smaller projects that don’t require matching funds,” he said.

“It really is a great opportunity for community groups to obtain funds to support their projects, and we encourage anyone interested to apply.

“We love to see organisations being innovative and creative, and addressing needs within their communities when applying for grants, so get your thinking caps on and apply for a grant.”

To apply for a community grant, applicants should obtain an application form and fact sheet from www.ararat.vic.gov.au, by phoning 5355 0200, or by calling into the Council’s Ararat office at 59 Vincent Street.

The fact sheet will give you more details on the application requirements, the appropriate category and the eligibility criteria. It is also recommended you chat to the Council’s Community Team to discuss your proposal – phone 5355 0200.

Applications are open now and close on Friday 29 March. Late applications will not be accepted.