Grants reopen to assist Ballarat community groups 

The City of Ballarat has finalised the first round of Community Impact Grants for 2022/23. 

The first round of grants saw $144,110 awarded to 24 Ballarat community groups, including musical groups, sporting associations, the LGBTIQA+ community, and many more. 

Now, community groups seeking to boost their programs, increase participation and create great community outcomes are being encouraged to apply for the second round of grants. 

Applications are now being accepted from local not-for-profit incorporated organisations, groups and associations. 

Funding opportunities ranging from $500 to $20,000 are available and applications will be assessed by a Community Impact Grant Allocations Committee which is comprised of three Councillors, representatives from local community organisations and community members. 

Applications are now open and will close at 5pm on Monday 6 March. 

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson encouraged local, not-for-profit incorporated organisations, groups or associations to apply. 

“As a Council, we are always keen to give community groups a helping hand, where possible,” Cr Hudson said. 

“Sometimes an extra boost can make a huge difference.” 

Examples of successful applications from round one of the Community Impact Grants included: 

Ballarat Memorial Concert Band: ‘BMCB Timpanis’ 

Funding will be used to purchase two new Timpanis (percussion instruments). This will allow beginner players to learn to play and allow other local and visiting community ensembles to use the Timpanis.    

Allocation Amount: $8,984 

Ballarat Little Athletics: ‘Inclusive Timing System Expansion’   

This funding will allow an upgrade to the existing timing system and the purchase of additional hardware to improve the timing ability of the centre. Solar battery upgrades will also mean the system is more environmentally friendly.   

Allocation Amount: $9,925 

York Street Church of Christ: ‘Reverse Advent Calendar and Big Blessing Day’   

The Reverse Advent Calendar has taken the tradition of the Advent Calendar and reversed it, putting a non-perishable item in each day for those in need instead. The church also hosted the ‘Big Blessing Day,’ where they distributed the boxes to those in need and held this event for the community to enjoy.  

Allocation Amount: $6,943 

McAuley Community Services for Women: ‘McAuley Community Library’   

Funding will be used to purchase more books for the library. This includes books in different languages and at various levels of literacy. The library will further boost McAuley House as a community hub and create opportunity for women to learn and connect with one another.   

Allocation Amount: $1,980 

To apply: 

1. Go to www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/communitygrants  

2. Download and read through the ‘Community Impact Grant Guidelines’, ‘Budget Tip Sheet’ and ‘Making your project more inclusive’ documents 

3. Gather all the documents you need in one place. 

4. Complete the application form and requirements 

5. Submit your application for consideration by the Community Impact Grant Committee