$300,000 in grants funding coming to Ballarat

Ballarat community groups are set to benefit with two new grants opportunities opening soon.

These grants programs, both to be administered by the Federal Member for Ballarat, are the Communities Environment Program and the Stronger Community Programme.

“Both of these grants programs offer exciting funding opportunities for community groups across our region”, Ms King said.

The Communities Environment Program will provide up to $150,000 across the electorate to support a maximum of 20 small scale community-led environment projects that address local environmental priorities in our region.

“The Communities Environment Program will provide money to community groups which manage waste, build community skills, and manage and protect our region’s natural flora and fauna.”

“Successful projects could see the planting of new trees, the installation of boardwalks, litter clean up events, recycling and repair facilities, community workshops and environmental monitoring”.

Providing the same level of funding, the 5^th round of the Stronger Communities Programme will fund small capital projects that improve local community participation and contribute to vibrant and viable communities.

“I know that many community groups have been waiting for the next round of the Stronger Communities Program – and I look forward to seeing the wonderful projects which are put forward for funding.”

“Previous rounds have seen funding allocated to the sorts of projects which make our communities more vibrant and liveable”.

“Grants made in the previous round saw the Blackwood Cricket Club purchase a mini-bus, Ballan Recreation Reserve build a new playground, Ballarat South Senior Citizens upgrade their kitchen, Legacy House upgrade their kitchen, and the Neighbours Place in Bacchus Marsh expand their emergency food bank and microfinance services.”

“I encourage all eligible groups to apply.”

Expression of interest forms for both programs will need to be submitted to Catherine King’s office by the August 29.

An information session regarding the grants will be held 10am, August 19 at Ballarat Trades Hall.

Further information on these grants programs can be found by contacting the Office of Catherine King.