2024-25 Community Grants to promote equity, inclusion

Published on 09 February 2025

Northern Grampians Shire community groups and not-for-profit organisations can apply for money to help develop or improve services or facilities through the council’s annual grants program.

Applications for the 2024/25 Community Grants round open on Monday, February 10, with funding up to $5000 available for eligible groups.

This year’s program features a focus on community equity and inclusion, with grants going towards projects that: Support opportunities for multicultural inclusion; enable all residents to be socially connected; enable access to healthy and affordable food; and provide leadership opportunities for women and girls.

Council staff will host community drop-in sessions for individuals and groups seeking more information about the grants process, including tips for writing strong applications.

The sessions will be at Stawell Library on Tuesday, February 18 and St Arnaud Library on Wednesday, February 19. Both sessions will be from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

Northern Grampians Shire mayor Karen Hyslop encouraged people seeking assistance with their applications to attend one of the information sessions.

“It’s a great opportunity to receive some help from our experienced staff,” she said.

“The Community Grants Program is a wonderful program that has helped so many groups and organisations throughout our shire.

“If you have something in mind, that meets the criteria, I encourage you to apply.”

Cr Hyslop said among last year’s funded projects were a community dinner to increase social connection in Great Western; a pergola and glass cabinet to improve the visitor experience at Swanwater West Cemetery; restumping of Paradise Hall; and structural repairs to improve safety at St Arnaud Rifle Club.

“This year we have a focus on projects that focus on community equity and inclusion, and I can’t wait to see what people come up with,” she said.

“The recipients of these grants provide great services and opportunities for our community and council is pleased to be able to support them through this fantastic program.”

Applications for 2024/25 Community Grants close on March 21, 2025. People can click here for more information, including grant criteria, tips for writing applications, and links to apply.

Council staff will notify grant applicants of the outcome of their assessment, by Friday, April 4, 2025.