Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Wednesday, 27 August, 2025. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate.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.

More than $450,000 awarded through Council’s 2024/2025 Community Grants Program

The funding was distributed across 12 grant programs and supported 115 successful applications, helping to deliver projects and initiatives valued at more than $1.5 million across the municipality.

Council’s grant programs provide support for a wide range of initiatives including community events, sports and recreation, heritage conservation, multicultural celebrations, youth activities, health and wellbeing programs, arts and culture, access and inclusion, and facility upgrades. Some of the successful applicants included:

Community groups such as Neighbourhood Houses, Lions and Rotary clubs, and Men’s Sheds for grassroots initiatives.
Sporting organisations including local football, cricket, cycling, bowls and volleyball clubs through the Our Sporting Future Fund.
Community groups delivering Australia Day events in Tatura, Mooroopna, Dookie, Murchison and Arcadia.
Community groups delivering Christmas decorations and community festive celebrations and events in small towns.
Heritage property owners undertaking conservation works under the Heritage Conservation Grant Program.
Creative organisations and individuals through the Creative City Grants.
Youth-focused organisations supported through the new Freeza Festival Grant Program.

Alongside community grants, Council also delivered more than $425,000 in financial and in-kind support through its Major Events Sponsorship and Partnership Program.

A total of 23 major events received assistance, ranging from large-scale sporting tournaments to festivals that celebrate Greater Shepparton’s cultural diversity. These events attract thousands of visitors, provide opportunities for local participation, and generate significant economic benefits.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the outcomes of the program highlight the important role Council plays in supporting both local initiatives and large-scale events.

“Through Council’s Community Grants Program, we are able to back the ideas, passion and dedication of our community groups and volunteers,” he said.

“This funding ensures grassroots projects, cultural celebrations, sporting clubs, and creative initiatives can grow and thrive. Combined with our support for major events, these investments not only strengthen community connections but also deliver huge economic benefits across our region.

“From festive decorations in our small towns to major international sporting events, every grant and sponsorship plays a part in making Greater Shepparton a vibrant and connected community.”

See a full list of the successful applicants in the Agenda for the August 2025 Council Meetings

For more information on Greater Shepparton’s grants and funding opportunities, visit our Grants and Funding web page.

For further information, please call Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au.