Small Grants Open for Central Victoria

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), in partnership with the McEwen Foundation managed by ANZ Trustees, has opened applications for grants of up to $10,000 for charitable projects in the wider Goulburn Valley, in central Victoria.

Organisations that have deductible gift recipient (DGR) status AND are a registered Charitable Organisation are invited to apply to share in the $67,500 available.

The FRRR says that in keeping with the wishes of the late Lady McEwen, and the priorities of the McEwen Foundation Trustees, preference will be given to projects that support:

• youth development and/or vulnerable young children;
• children’s early learning and development services; or
• accommodation that benefits older people.

FRRR CEO Alexandra Gartmann says that this funding is specifically for the wider Goulburn Valley.

“This is a great opportunity for community organisations that are designated as charities, and are DGR endorsed, to obtain funding for critical community projects,” she said.

“The program currently has an emphasis on supporting programs and accommodation for older people, at one end of life’s spectrum, and younger people at the other end, and we are particularly keen to fund projects that support youth development and early learning.

“Over the last six years, the program has funded 51 grants across the district. Many of these have enabled better access to services or have introduced new projects or programs benefiting residents of the Goulburn Valley.

“These responsive small grants have also been used to fund and maintain vital equipment and infrastructure,” she said. “After a successful six year partnership, the program focus is being reviewed and a refreshed theme will be targeted in future grant programs.”

To be eligible for consideration, projects must be within the Goulburn Valley district and must be from charitable organisations (Charitable Institution OR Public Benevolent Institution OR Health Promotion Charity), which also have DGR status with the Australian Taxation Office.

Projects must be located in one of the following six Local Government Areas:

• Campaspe Shire Council;
• Greater Shepparton City Council;
• Mitchell Shire Council;
• Moira Shire Council;
• Murrindindi Shire Council; or
• Strathbogie Shire Council.

A full list of eligible localities can be found in the guidelines.

Application forms, guidelines and further information can be obtained from the FRRR website or by calling 1800 170 020. Applications can be made by email or post and must be sent by close of business 5pm, Monday, May 5.

Grants will be awarded at a local event in the Goulburn Valley in August.

The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) was established in 2000 to support the renewal of rural and regional communities in Australia through partnerships with the private sector, philanthropy and governments.

Since inception, FRRR has managed the distribution of more than $40 million in grants and provided substantial capacity building support to community organisations across the nation.