Grants of up to $100,000 are now open to application for Men’s Sheds across the state.
Men’s sheds provide a place for men to come together and build friendships and support networks. They improve the health and wellbeing of their members by reducing social isolation and promoting social inclusion.
They also help to support local communities including schools, emergency services like the CFA, and through donations of handmade goods to local charities.
The last round of grants funded the construction of eight new sheds and the renovation of 21 others across regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne.
In addition to helping build new sheds, the grants program also helps successful applicants upgrade premises, and refurbish facilities, to make them more accessible and inclusive for people with disability.
There are currently more than 360 men’s sheds across Victoria, and five in Melton and Moorabool.
Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence said men’s sheds provide a place to learn new skills, share interests, make friends and contribute to local communities.
“This investment will support upgrades throughout the state and create more opportunities for Victorians to get involved with their local men’s shed,” she said.
Victorian Men’s Shed Association chief executive Derek O’Leary said the grants will help men’s sheds grow and welcome new members.
“Men’s sheds make a powerful contribution to the health and wellbeing of Victorians, bringing individuals together and strengthening communities,” he said.
The grants were made possible by a $1 million dollar state government investment.
Applications close at 5.00pm on Friday, December 8.
Details: providers.dffh.vic.gov.au/mens-shed-program
