2023 Community Grants Program opens
Published on 11 July 2023
Council’s 2023 Community Grants program is now accepting online applications for a share of $255,000 of funding available to support community projects and activities.
These grants present an opportunity for our diverse community to thrive by supporting initiatives that foster connections between people and neighbourhoods and build skills and understanding.
There are three categories:
- Small Grants up to $1,000
- Medium Grants up to $15,000
- Large Grants up to $25,000
If you have a project idea that can benefit the community, City of Maribyrnong Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter, encourages you to apply.
“Our Community Grants program is a key resource in supporting and empowering local community groups and volunteers, enabling them to create a significant and positive impact within the community,” she said.
The program aims to support a range of projects that promote social inclusion, intercultural and intergenerational engagement, and encourage participation from individuals of diverse backgrounds and communities.
Council is particularly interested in receiving applications for First Nations-led projects, projects developed in partnership with CALD communities, LGBTIQA+ individuals, young people, older people, and/or people with disabilities.
"By providing funding support, the program enables individuals and groups to implement projects that encourage local leadership, volunteerism, and contribute to the development of a diverse and inclusive municipality," continued Cr Carter.
A recipient of the 2021 Community Grant funding, Maria and Kate from the podcast Being Biracial, expressed their gratitude for the support they received.
The grant allowed the pair to produce a series of episodes for their unique, conversational podcast, delving into the experiences of navigating the world as mixed-race individuals, while shining a spotlight on the diverse community of Maribyrnong and the West.
“Our community is filled with fascinating stories. We just need to give people a platform to tell them,” Maria and Kate said. “We’ve loved interviewing guests about growing up and living in the West and how that has shaped their understanding of their mixed race identity and feel so lucky to have the support of the Maribyrnong Community Grant to create the podcast”, Maria and Kate continued.
Before submitting an application, applicants should review the Community Grants Program guidelines and liaise with Council's Community Grants Officer regarding their proposed project.
To further assist applicants, Council will again be hosting grant writing workshops and information sessions.
Successful Grant Writing Workshop
Community Grants Information Session
To ensure fairness and transparency in the assessment process, an Independent Review Panel has been established to promote accountability and integrity in awarding community grants. Working alongside Council officers, the Panel will review grant applications and provide recommendations to Council.
Applications close 4pm, Monday 14 August 2023.
For more information about Community Grants and to apply, please visit: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/communitygrants
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