Take your project to the next level with a Council grant
Published on 11 July 2023
Do you have an idea for a community-centred project or event? Apply for the next round of Council grants to get it up and running.
Mount Alexander Shire Council offers two grant programs: Community Grants and Events Grants.
The Community Grants program opens on Monday 17 July and supports local groups and individuals who are developing new and emerging community projects.
Two funding streams are available: small grants, which are up to $3,000 and partnership grants, which are up to $10,000.
Council’s Event Grants program opens on Monday 7 August and supports groups who are running public events. There are three funding streams available: $1,000, $2,000 and $3,000.
The last round of Community Grants saw 18 groups benefit from the program including Queer Book Club, Castlemaine Safe Space and Harcourt Valley Landcare Group.
Another 15 groups benefited from the last round of Event Grants including Hot Moves No Pressure, Run the Maine and the Resonance String Orchestra.
Event Grant recipient, The Good Op Shop, have used their grant to host reuse and repair workshops.
“This year we wanted to find more ways to encourage people to try out different reuse and repair skills, with the aim to keep more out of landfill,” said Tiffany Inglis, The Good Op Shop’s Director.
“So the Reuse & Repair workshops were born.
“We applied for a Council Event Grant and were very excited to find out we were successful. It's meant we can pay the people running the workshops, to acknowledge their time and generosity in sharing their knowledge.
“It also means we can cover the advertising costs for the workshops and our time coordinating the bookings. We'd love to run the series each year and change it up based on interest.”
Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Director of Corporate Community Services, Lisa Knight, said that Council is proud to support local projects and events through the grants program.
“Our shire always has a number of excellent programs happening throughout the year,” said Ms Knight.
“These grants allow us to support these projects which means there are more opportunities for residents to get involved with their community.
“I encourage anyone who has an idea for a community-based initiative or event to apply, especially groups that are new to grants.
“We particularly love the ones that are focused on inclusivity and connectedness – so that’s something to think about when putting together your application.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what projects and events take place over the coming year, and helping our vibrant community continue to flourish.”
Information session on Community and Event Grants program
Council is holding an information session for community members to get more information on grants, and ask questions about their projects and applications.
When: Wednesday 26 July, 10.00am-2.30pm
Where: Castlemaine Town Hall foyer
In addition to Council’s Community Grants and Event Grants programs, there are also quick response event grants, which are available all year round and can provide up to $500 per event.
For applications forms, details on previously funded projects and more information on both Community Grants and Events Grants, visit our Grants, funding and awards page.
To speak to a member of Council staff to discuss your application, call 5471 1700 or email grants@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.
Important dates
Community Grants
Applications open: Monday 17 July
Applications close: Monday 7 August
Event Grants
Applications open: Monday 7 August
Applications close: Monday 28 August