Applications for the second round of the fund opened on Monday, August 26.
Grants between $5000 and $50,000 are available to be put toward boosting tourism, livability and community pride in towns of up to 5000 people, to make our smallest communities even better places to live, work and visit.
Changes have been made to the application process to make it easier for smaller, volunteer-run community groups to apply for funding.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes and member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe made statements welcoming the announcements, and encouraged groups to apply in the new round.
“The Tiny Towns Fund empowers small communities to thrive, ensuring projects that locals are passionate about can become a reality,” Ms Symes said.
From new barbecues, bike tracks and walking trails to club and community hall upgrades, the first round of grants helped small towns in many ways.
The first round supported more than 200 projects in 181 towns across regional Victoria, providing $7 million in funding.
Ms O’Keeffe highlighted the success of the previous round, which saw three applicants in the Shepparton electorate receive funding.
The Nathalia Lawn Tennis Club received $30,000 to upgrade its fencing, the Shepparton East Football Netball Club received $17,500 to install a new multi-zone PA system and the Tatura Civic Halls Committee received $11,000 for electrical works.
“These grants have made such a positive difference in our local communities, and I’m looking forward to seeing more projects get the support they need,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“This is a wonderful chance for our towns to secure funding that can make a difference to their community, and I encourage all small towns to apply.”
Applications close on Friday, October 25.
For more information, visit rdv.vic.gov.au/tinytownsfund