Federal funding grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 for small capital projects are available under Round 2 of the Stronger Communities Programme.

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said expressions of interest were being received by his office until 5pm on Wednesday 9 March and should include a completed Expression of Interest form which could be found on his website. (Please click here for Expression of Interest form)

“$150,000 has been committed for each electorate per year, for two years and I am encouraging community groups which have a broad membership to consider applying.”

Mr Taylor said the programme was open to local councils and eligible, incorporated not for profit organisations who could match the funding, in cash or kind, on at least a dollar-for-dollar basis. Unsuccessful Round 1 applicants are welcome to re-apply in Round 2.

“I’m aware of a number of different projects being planned across the Hume electorate and there’s still plenty of time for groups to be in touch and register their interest,” he said.

“I will be working closely again with a community consultative committee and we’re especially keen on projects that deliver a strong social benefit, such as projects by sporting and recreation clubs, community groups and volunteer emergency services. Any and all potential applicants should get in touch soon with my Goulburn office on 02 4822 2277 to discuss ideas which meet the eligibility criteria.”

He said successful projects in Round 1 included improvements to a local swimming pool, construction of a skate park, improvements to local sporting ovals and sporting facilities, provision of a community hall kitchen, community fitness stations, a companion animal off-leash area and a local sporting walk of fame project.

Applicants are encouraged to read the Stronger Communities Programme guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions which are available on the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development’s website http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/scp/index.aspx

Caption: Angus Taylor’s office is keen to receive written expressions of interest for Round 2 of the Stronger Communities Programme by March 9. Please call on 02 4822 2277.