Do you have a great idea that would encourage and support participation in local projects, and contribute to vibrant and viable communities?
If so, round eight of the Stronger Communities Program is now open for expressions of interest.
Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines has encouraged eligible community organisations and local governments to come forward and apply.
“There is $150,000 of grants available in Indi and I am so excited to be able to support projects that make our communities stronger and bring people together,” Dr Haines said.
“Round eight of the program aims to support communities recover from the widespread impacts of adverse weather events and current economic pressures.
“I encourage people to carefully read the guidelines and use the resources on my website to put together an expression of interest that meets the criteria and makes the best case for funding.
“Projects funded in Indi in the last round of the Stronger Communities Program include an upgrade of the kitchen at the Mitta Valley Bowling Club, new picnic tables and benches along the Kiewa River in Mount Beauty and community gardens in Euroa and Flowerdale.”
Grants between $2500 and $20,000 are available for projects, that have a maximum cost of $50,000.
Eligible projects must be a small capital works or capital expenditure project, deliver social benefits to your community and include eligible activities and eligible expenditure.
Eligible organisations can apply for up to 100 per cent of project costs, while local governing bodies can apply for up to 50 per cent of project costs.
“There is always very strong interest in these grants and I receive many wonderful community proposals,” Dr Haines said.
“A committee of representatives from local government and community groups will assess the expressions of interest before successful proponents are invited to make full applications to the department.”
The final decision on successful applications will be made by a delegate of the government.
Expressions of interest must be received by 5pm on Friday, March 17.
Full eligibility criteria and the expressions of interest form are available at www. helenhaines.org/resources/grants/