Councils and not-for-profit or community organisations can apply for two grant streams, depending on the amount needed to fund the project.
Funds are designed to support a range of local-led projects, equipment purchases and events for community organisations to improve liveability.
Grants from $2000 to $20,000 are available to fund minor refurbishments, such as buying new equipment like laptops or audio-visual supplies.
Funds between $20,000 to $200,000 are available to infrastructure projects like new playgrounds and community gardens, splash pads, art installations and community hall upgrades.
Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp called the fund a great initiative to provide needed infrastructure and equipment to the community, while supporting the local economy and jobs.
“It’s great for our regional towns to have even more of a chance to support their local communities to build stronger connections for the future,” Mr Gepp said.
“I’m delighted to support our regional communities at a time of significant growth and opportunity, thanks to our Living Local Fund,” Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing said.
The program is part of the government’s Our Regions and Our Suburbs: Living Local Initiative, intended to ensure communities have infrastructure and equipment needed to thrive.
Projects in areas most impacted by the pandemic and projects that align with the government’s “20-minute neighbourhood” principles will be given priority.
The 20-minute neighbourhood principle aims to create “hubs“ where services, health facilities, parks and shops can be accessed within a 20-minute walk from home.
For more information and to apply, visit https://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/living-local-regional-fund; applications close on Sunday, August 14.
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