Community Grants Program returns with applications opening soon

Published on 10 January 2024

Local community groups across Baw Baw Shire are encouraged to start preparing their applications for the second round of the 2023/24 Community Grants.

The Community Grants Program includes two funding streams, including Community Projects and Minor Capital Works.

Applications for the second round of Community Projects will open on Monday 5 February and can be made for projects valued up to $5,000. Applications will close at midday on Friday 23 February.

The Community Projects funding aims to support the delivery of community events, programs, environmental initiatives, and the purchasing of equipment.

To date the 2023/24 Community Grants Program has seen more than $140,000 delivered through round one, and the program has provided over $300,000 in total funding over the past two years.

As community groups begin preparing their applications, they are reminded that they must make an appointment with Council’s Grants team as part of the application process. Council officers will provide grant information and one on one support and advice prior to releasing the application form.

Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Annemarie McCabe encouraged community groups to make the most of the chance to meet with Council and get a better understanding of how to submit a high-quality application.

“During these appointments Council officers will ask questions, build on ideas that meet the purpose of the grant, help enhance the application and make suggestions to ensure groups have the best chance of receiving the funding,” the Mayor said.

To make an appointment simply phone Council on 1300 229 229 or email [email protected] to secure a time. Appointments can be made any time from now.

Examples of how the funding has been used previously includes the purchasing of defibrillators, covering costs of running community events, running community training and the replacement of sporting equipment.

Cr McCabe said that she was looking forward to seeing the type of projects and programs that were funded this year and added that our local community groups play an integral role in Baw Baw.

“Our Community Grants Program is designed to support the community groups who support our residents, and make the Shire a better place to live,” Cr McCabe said.

Later this year, applications will also open for the Minor Capital Works Program, as well as the round one of Community Projects for the 2024/25 program. Information about this can be found on Council’s website at www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/CommunityGrants.