Mayor’s Message - Friday 21 February 2025

Applications for the Community Impact Grant Program are now open, offering an opportunity for local not-for-profit community groups, clubs and organisations to obtain some much-needed funding.

This annual program is designed to strengthen links between community members and groups by supporting projects, events, products and services that help make Ballarat a better place for everybody.

Funding opportunities from $500 to $20,000 are available, and while we encourage a variety of applications, priority will be given to projects that address the focus areas of Council: healthy, connected and inclusive communities; community capacity building, and environmental sustainability.

We know that there are numerous worthy projects in our community that could use a financial boost and I strongly encourage anybody who is part of a local not-for-profit group to consider applying if they meet the criteria.

Additionally, the Ballarat Neighbourhood Houses are hosting grant-writing workshops throughout February and March to help groups with the application process and give everyone the best chance of success.

Council is proud to once again be offering this program, as it not only provides financial assistance to help local groups thrive, but it also shows us where the community’s priorities lie.

This is one of several channels through which the City of Ballarat can learn from the community and we are excited to announce a new opportunity coming to Civic Hall in March.

The Let’s Chat Ballarat Community Expo will enable residents to engage in one-on-one conversations with Councillors and City of Ballarat staff about what matters to them. It will be the first expo of its kind and is a chance to provide in-person feedback on Council services, programs and initiatives.

As a new Councillor group, we are committed to working with and for our community, and we want to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.  

Further information about Let’s Chat Ballarat will be coming soon. Full details about the Community Impact Grants Program can be found at ballarat.vic.gov.au/grants.

- Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves