General News
12 February, 2025
Applications open for NGSC community grants to promote equity and inclusion
Northern Grampians Shire Council opens 2024/25 grants program.
Up to $5000 is available for eligible groups who apply for the Northern Grampians Shire Council's recently opened 2024/25 community grants program.
Community groups and non-for-profits can apply for the grant to help develop or improve facilities with this year's program to focus on equity and inclusion.
Northern Grampians Shire Council mayor, Karen Hyslop encourages any community group with an idea that meets the the criteria to apply.
"The Community Grants Program is a wonderful program that has helped so many groups and organisations throughout our shire," she said.
Grants from this program are expected to be 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.
"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," Cr Hyslop 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."
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 running from from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.
Cr Hyslop encouraged people seeking assistance with their applications to attend one of the information sessions.
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.
Applications for 2024/25 Community Grants close on March 21, 2025. People can visit the Northern Grampians Shire Council website 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.