By Matthew Sims
Local councils and community groups, including those in Melton and Moorabool, are encouraged to apply for funding towards the $20 million Living Local Fund grants program.
Launched by Williamstown MP and Suburban Development Minister Melissa Horne and Regional Development Minister Harriet Shing on Monday, July 11 during a visit to the Clarke Street Park in West Footscray, the program is designed to ensure local communities have the infrastructure and equipment they need to continue to thrive.
Local councils and community organisations can apply for two types of grants:
• Grants between $20,000 and $200,000, which will be available for infrastructure projects, such as new playgrounds and community gardens, splash pads, art installations and community halls upgrades; and
• Grants between $2000 and $20,000, which will also be available to local councils and community organisations to undertake minor refurbishments and buy new equipment, such as kitchen appliances, laptops and audiovisual equipment.
Williamstown MP and Suburban Development Minister Melissa Horne said projects in areas most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and those that align with the Government’s 20-Minute neighbourhood principle will be given priority.
“Our Living Local Fund is all about supporting communities to continue to thrive, providing them with the facilities and infrastructure they need,” she said.
“This program is a great opportunity for us to work closely with community, councils and local businesses to create more jobs, improve connections and support local economies.”
The 20-Minute Neighbourhood principle aims to create local hubs where people can access services like health facilities, parks and shops within a 20-minute walk from home.
Footscray MP Katie Hall said the program is designed to support a wide range of locally led projects and equipment purchases for community organisations to improve liveability.
“From roof repairs to streetscape upgrades, the Living Local Fund is another way that we are helping suburbs and regional towns to prosper and grow,” she said.
Grant applications will close on Sunday, August 14.
Details: djpr.vic.gov.au/living-local
