Media Releases 2012

Council introduces Community Matching Fund

18 Jan 2012

Applications are now open for Wyong Shire Council’s Community Matching Fund, which aims to support local priorities and the valuable work done by our community groups.  

This grant aligns with Council’s Community Strategic Plan to build healthier and stronger neighbourhoods through community connectedness.

The fund requires the community group to contribute $10,000 towards their project, with Council offering contributions from $20,000 to $75,000 per project, which may include cash or in-kind contributions, such as supplies, materials or services.

Council’s Community and Cultural Development Manager, Julie Vaughan, said this program endeavours to improve the well being of the Shire through the development and implementation of community-driven initiatives.

“The process of matched funding is as important as the projects themselves as it helps residents create relationships and increases active participation at a neighbourhood level,” Ms Vaughan said.

“It also allows Council to support community groups while assisting them to take ownership of their projects and become self-driven, so they’re not solely relying on government funding.”

Applications can be submitted in the categories of arts, celebration, infrastructure, environment, neighbourhood safety, skills development and accessibility.

Community Matching Funds will become available up to three times each year.

Interested applicants are encouraged to attend a Community Grant Information Session that will be held at the Wyong Shire Council Civic Centre on Friday, 1 February 2012 at 3pm to 4pm or 5:30pm to 6:30pm.

Applications for the Community Matching Fund, Community Benefit Grants and Cultural Grants are open until Friday, 2 March 2012. Forms can be downloaded from Council’s website at www.wyong.nsw.gov.au/grants.

Media Contact:  Angela Walsh (02) 4350 5103