29 March 2011

Applications are now open for the first round of funding through Greater Shepparton City Council’s Community Matching Grants Scheme.

Deputy Mayor Cr Michael Polan said $50,000 had been made available through the Community Plan Implementation Program to fund community-building projects.

The program is part of Council's Community Development Framework, which was adopted by Council late last year to support community-driven change and help build resilient communities.

Cr Polan said the scheme was primarily targeted to grass-roots neighbourhood groups.

"Generally grants up to $2500 will be made available to support one-off projects that will benefit the local community," Cr Polan said.

"This is a terrific new initiative that will appeal to groups of like-minded individuals who are passionate about a particular project and believe it will benefit their local area or neighbourhood."

The scheme is also open to existing groups and clubs as well as to groups that form specifically to drive a particular neighbourhood project.

Cr Polan said examples of projects that could be considered for the grants included revegetating a common area, refurbishing a community hall, installing signage, upgrading playground equipment, community gardens or undertaking a community arts project.

"Groups are not required to be incorporated to access this grant pool," Cr Polan said.

"They can either partner with another incorporated group or contact Council for further information regarding the application process."

Cr Polan said neighbourhood groups applying for funding through the scheme needed to show that they could match Council's funding either through cash or in-kind support.

"However, we recognise that some groups will have limited access to resources so we're keen to be as flexible as possible in matching funding through recognising the benefit of volunteer support to complete projects," Cr Polan said.

"The important point is that the group can demonstrate there is strong local support and buy-in for the project."

Applications for funding close 5pm, Monday May 1.

Information sessions about the scheme will be held at the Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre, 25 Alexandra St, Mooroopna on Monday April 4, from 1pm to 2pm and Thursday April 7 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

To RSVP or for more information about the scheme, contact grants Officer Andrew Holloway on 5832 9823 or grants@shepparton.vic.gov.au

An application form and more details about the scheme are also available at www.greatershepparton.com.au