Applications open for Stronger Communities grants

Posted August 06, 2019

Federal Member for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie is inviting local clubs and organisations to apply for grants for small capital projects that build community and improve facilities across the electorate.

“Applications are now open for Round 5 of the Stronger Communities Program, a $22.65 million national funding stream that guarantees up to $150,000 will be spent in our region to make our communities better places to be,” Rebekha said.

“Each of the 151 electorates in Australia receives an allocation of $150,000 and each electorate can set up their own independent committee – under the auspices of their local MP – to evaluate and distribute grants to clubs, local governments and not-for-profits.

“Eligible groups can apply for grants between $2,500 and $20,000 from the Federal Government and are required to match the project funds with their own finances or in-kind support.

“Each application is considered by our Mayo committee and we have the discretion to shortlist up to 20 projects that will improve the local community.

“We will be using local knowledge to identify the projects that will bring real social benefits to our communities.”

Ms Sharkie has invited community groups to lodge expressions of interest to her office by 5pm on Monday, September 2, 2019.

All applicants are required to complete and return an expressions of interest form which is available from grants co-ordinator Milly Pink who can be contacted via email at Amelia.Pink@aph.gov.au or by calling the electorate office on 8398 5566.

“This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in our region and help communities with projects such as upgrading sports equipment, refurbishing clubrooms or building shade structures down at the local park,” Rebekha said.

The Department is expected to announce the successful projects later in the year.

To date the program has committed funding to over 7,700 community–based projects across Australia.

Previously approved projects include fit-outs for men’s sheds, building a bike path, purchasing equipment for sports groups and upgrades to community halls.

Information about the program and the Department’s eligibility criteria is available here.

Successful applications for Round 4 were announced late last year.

In Mayo the successful Round 4 applicants included:

• Kangarilla Recreation Ground Committee: $16,197 for installation of an independent power supply
• Harrogate Soldiers Memorial Hall: $10,000 for Repairs to the Harrogate Community Hall
• Nairne Bremer United Football Club: $9,000 to replace the coaching box
• Penneshaw Progress Association: $18,440 for Installation of Swing Bridge
• Lions Club of Willunga Districts: $10,000 to upgrade electrical system
• Mount Torrens Centenary Park: $10,000 to upgrade of oval surface
• TOC H South Australia: $10,000 for renovation of kitchen and bathroom
• Macclesfield Recreation Grounds Committee: $3,740 for replacement of indoor chairs
• Victor Harbor Tennis Club: $4,000 for installation of electrical infrastructure
• Aldinga Bay Bowling Club: $2,500 for purchase of Lawn Sprayer and Mower Blades
• Dudley United Netball Club: $4,000 for upgrade of multi-sports court facility
• Girl Guides South Australia (Blewitt Springs): $3,000 for purchase and installation of solar panels
• Yankalilla Rapid Bay & Myponga Agricultural and Horticultural Society: $7,325 for upgrade of toilet facilities and installation of air-conditioning
• McLaren Vale Sporting Complex: $6,000 for purchase of ride-on mower
• Normanville Surf Life Saving Club: $2,500 for purchase of equipment for beach and equal access
• Adelaide Hills Council: $2,500 for a bus shelter at Gumeracha
• Langhorne Creek Historic School _ $12,000 to install display cabinets, seating and lighting
• Lenswood and Forest Range Community Association: $3,000 for purchase and installation of Heritage Walk Plaques
• Hills Community Toy Library: $3,000 for a storage facility
• Alexandrina Council: $9,375 for installation of signage for corner Meechi Road & Callington Road
• Sturt Volunteers Fire Fighters Welfare Association: $8,350 for purchase of Thermal Imaging Cameras.