The Victorian Government has announced the $20 million Living Local Fund, allowing local councils to apply for grants worth up to $20,000 – to refurbish or implement new infrastructure.
Victorian Minister for Suburban Development, Melissa Horne, and Minister for Regional Development, Harriet Shing, confirmed that applications are open for the new Living Local Fund grants at Clarke Street Park in West Footscray.
Ms Horne said the initiative is a key part of the State Government’s Our Suburbs and Our Regions: Living Local Initiative, which aims to assist local communities to upgrade their streetscapes and public spaces.
“Our Living Local Fund is all about supporting communities to continue to thrive, providing them with the facilities and infrastructure they need,” Ms Horne said.
“This program is a great opportunity for us to work closely with community, councils and local businesses to create more jobs, improve connections and support local economies.”
Local councils and community organisations can apply for two types of grants:
- Grants between $20,000 to $200,000 for infrastructure projects including new playgrounds, community gardens, splash pads, art installations and community halls upgrades
- Grants between $2,000 to $20,000 for local councils and community organisations to implement minor refurbishments and buy new equipment such as kitchen appliances, laptops and audio-visual equipment
The initiative will prioritise developing new facilities in the areas that were most significantly affected by the pandemic.
Member for Footscray, Katie Hall, said the Living Local Fund will provide significant opportunities for these communities to drive growth and development.
“From roof repairs to streetscape upgrades, the Living Local Fund is another way that we are helping suburbs and regional towns to prosper and grow.”
The State Government said the initiative aligns with its move towards the 20-Minute Neighbourhood principle, which aims to create easy access to health facilities, parks and shops within a 20-minute walk from resident’s homes.
