Council Announces Upcoming Window for Community Grant Applications

The next round of Council’s Community Grants Program is due to open early in the new year, with organisations encouraged to consider applying as we move into the holiday period. 

The Community Grants Program offers financial assistance to bolster local initiatives and strengthen community bonds. Local groups can submit applications for grants of up to $5,000 on a two-for-one basis across four distinct categories: Sports/recreation and health/wellbeing, culture and arts, environment and sustainability, and events.

Council’s last round of grants, awarded in April this year, saw three projects funded: the Ararat Basketball Association’s new uniforms to encourage more female players, Mt William Polo Club’s October tournament event, and Pomonal Primary School’s Art Show and Festival, held in November.

“Council are so proud of the incredible range of projects we’ve seen come to life through the Community Grants Program,” says Mayor Jo Armstrong. “The Program is all about empowering local groups to make their project’s vision a reality. We encourage groups dedicated to nurturing inclusive and connected communities to take this opportunity and submit their proposals.”

The initiative proudly champions community-led endeavors, providing financial support to amplify engagement in sports and recreation, cultural events, arts accessibility, and sustainability initiatives.

Applications for the Ararat Rural City Council Community and Events Grants Program will be accepted from 2 January 2025 until 2 February 2025, at 5:00 PM. Interested groups can apply online at www.ararat.vic.gov.au or obtain hard copy applications from municipal offices.

Image: The CFA at this year's Pomonal Art Show and Festival, which was awarded a Community Grant in April this year. Courtesy of Pomonal Art Show Facebook page.