Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Thursday, 4 July, 2013. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Applications Open for Community Matching Grants Scheme

Greater Shepparton Mayor Jenny Houlihan said $75,000 had been made available to fund community-building projects.

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

Cr Houlihan said the scheme would be particularly attractive to grass-roots groups.

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

"This is a terrific 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 project.

Cr Houlihan 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, or undertaking a community arts project.

"Groups that are not incorporated can either partner with another incorporated group or contact Council for more advice," Cr Houlihan said.

Cr Houlihan said 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," Cr Houlihan 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, Thursday 25 July 2013

To RSVP for an information session, or for more information about the scheme, contact Council's Community Development Officer on (03) 5832 9700. An application form and more details about the scheme are also available at from the Grants and Funding section of Council's website