Kingston has launched the second stage of consultation for our proposed new community grants model, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive decision-making and addressing the evolving needs of the community.
For over 20 years, Kingston's grants program has enriched our community across various sectors, including health, welfare, sport, recreation, arts, culture, education, and the environment. Last year, Council distributed approximately $1.8 million to more than 250 organisations, groups, and individuals.
Mayor Hadi Saab emphasised the importance of this second stage of community consultation in finalising the new grants model.
"This phase provides an opportunity for those that have already provided feedback to review where we have landed with the proposed model, as well as providing an opportunity for new community members and stakeholders to contribute," Cr Saab said.
"We are eager to hear from past Kingston grant applicants, grant recipients, community groups, and the wider Kingston community to ensure our proposed model truly mirrors our shared aspirations.
"While our grants budget will remain unchanged, we are aiming to consolidate the ten existing grant streams into five, enhancing clarity and accessibility for all applicants.
"The key to this revamp is to ensure our new model is inclusive and most importantly, fair. We want to ensure the distribution of grants is equitable and representative of Kingston's diverse community.
"We have heard from our community and the groups they represent that we need to reduce red tape and offer a more straightforward application process and that is what we have put forward with these changes."
The proposed model has been informed by a review of Council's current grants program, audit reports including the Fraud Control Over Local Government Grants report by the Victorian Auditor General's Office, benchmarking against other local government grants programs, and the first stage of community consultation when more than 200 people contributed their perspectives.
Council is hosting a live webinar (this will be recorded for those unable to attend) on Wednesday 13 September from 2-3pm, allowing community members and groups to pose questions and share their views - register.
To view the new model and complete the survey, head to yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/grantsreview
