Communities across Wannon will share in $150,000 in Australian Government funding to improve local infrastructure and provide essential community equipment, with applications now open under Round 6 of the successful Stronger Communities Programme.

Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan said this would fund up to 20 projects in Wannon, with grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 available to cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs, except for local governing bodies where grant funding will be up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs.

“I encourage all interested eligible organisations in Wannon to consider potential projects to bring forward, as this kind of funding can be the difference which helps a local priority project off the drawing board and launches it into reality,” Mr Tehan said.

“These investments have had a significant impact in local communities, including encouraging greater community participation and social networks, improving local amenity and of course providing lasting upgrades or equipment which supports our communities in future opportunities for growth.

“This is why I am excited to now have another round of funding available to support even more projects here in Wannon as we continue to band together to reinvigorate our local economy, businesses and communities.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said 2021 was all about driving the nation’s economic recovery from COVID-19 and strengthening communities plays a vital role in this.

“As a proud regional Australian who lives, works and represents this vital piece of our nation’s identity, I know first-hand that a strong regional Australia will be key to our economic recovery and future,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This program has already committed funding to over 10,000 projects across Australia, locally driven projects which make a real difference in our communities.

“Previous rounds have been highly successful, providing up to $112.65 million for vital local projects such as community halls, men's sheds, inflatable rescue boats and disaster recovery generators which bolster community amenity and wellbeing.

“Our Government is keeping all cylinders firing when it comes to backing our regions and metro areas and paving the path to economic recovery.

“This builds upon the recent opening of Round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund, which will see local communities share in $200 million for community infrastructure and investment across our regions, including $100 million in funding dedicated to tourism-related infrastructure.

“Communities can rest assured our government is with them every step of the way and together, we will come out the other end of this pandemic stronger than ever.”

Applications open on Tuesday 19 January 2021 and close on Monday 8 March 2021.

Further information on grant guidelines, eligibility requirements and the application process can be found at www.business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/stronger-communities-programme.