Rural communities have the opportunity to add significant upgrades and deliver key projects with grants of up to $50,000 now available.
The grants under the Australian Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program are open to rural hamlets based outside of the Benalla township.
Of this funding, $300,000 is being allocated as a community fund, meaning eligible community groups can apply to Council for up $50,000 to deliver Community Infrastructure Projects.
Examples of eligible projects include:
- community/public art (applications will need to provide a clear description of the conceptual basis of the artwork)
- picnic shelters
- barbeque facilities at community parks
- painting or improvements to community facilities
- repairing and replacing fencing
- revitalised picnic shelters
- barbeque facilities at community parks
- bicycle and walking paths with interpretive trails
- improved accessibility of community facilities and areas
- landscaping improvements, such as tree planting and beautification of roundabouts
- playgrounds and skate parks (including all ability playgrounds)
- off-road car parks (such as those at sporting grounds or parks.
Cr Hearn said the Community Grants Program provided an ideal opportunity for Council to provide support to local groups.
"Council's Community Infrastructure Grants Program is designed to empower rural communities to seek funding for projects and activities that will assist in building healthy, vibrant and sustainable communities across Benalla Rural City," Cr Hearn said.
"I encourage rural community groups to obtain a copy of the funding guidelines and apply for a grant if they have a suitable program or project which needs funding assistance," Cr Hearn said.
