Community
Locals urged to apply for funding

Riverina MP Michael McCormack is inviting organisations such as not-for-profits, Indigenous corporations and Local Governments to make an expression of interest for Round 9 of the Stronger Communities Programme.

“The Riverina has been allocated a pool of $150,000 to fund small capital projects,” Mr McCormack said.

“I’m calling for eligible applicants from across the Riverina and Central West, with a project in mind to deliver social benefits to the community, to make an expression of interest.

“Applicants will be able to apply for funding between $2,500 and $20,000 for up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs, depending on organisation type.

“We all know community-oriented organisations make such a difference to the liveability of regional communities. It is only right to make sure these organisations are supported in their philanthropic endeavours.

“That’s why I’ve always been so eager to support remarkable organisations secure funding to continue and enhance their efforts.

“In the previous round of the Stronger Communities Programme, we saw funding delivered for 17 organisations across the Riverina and Central West.

“This delivered disabled car parks for the Cootamundra Men’s Shed, improvements to Gaggin Oval for the Forbes Junior Australian Football Club, supported maintenance of the Grenfell Historical Museum and much more.”

To be eligible, projects must deliver social benefits to the community and be nominated by the applicant’s Member of Parliament.

“All EOIs received by my office will be reviewed by a consultation committee and myself, after which, successful proponents will be invited to apply for a grant,” Mr McCormack said.

“I look forward to reviewing many of the exciting proposals which will continue to support the Riverina being the best place to live, work and raise a family.”

Applicable projects must also directly align and give effect to at least one of the objectives of the program and be one of the listed eligible activities. Some of this round’s objectives include supporting or encouraging interstate or international tourism, supporting or celebrating Indigenous Australians and supporting Veterans.

A list of eligible activities can be found in the grant guidelines.

Projects must be able to be completed by 31 December 2025 and only a maximum of 20 projects will be funded in each electorate.

EOIs should include a short description of the project, total cost, details of matching funding (for councils), why the project is important to the community and contact details.

EOIs must be submitted by 21 February 2024 and can be obtained by emailing michael.mccormack.mp@aph.gov.au or by contacting Mr McCormack’s Wagga Wagga electorate office on 6921 4600.

More information about the opportunity and the grant guidelines can be found at https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/stronger-communities-programme-round-9.