Ararat Rural City Council is encouraging local community groups and not-for-profit organisations to start preparing their applications for the next round of Community Grants, which will open on 1 June 2026 and close on 30 June 2026.
Council's Community Grants program supports projects, equipment purchases, and facility improvements that strengthen community participation and help local groups continue their work across the municipality. In the most recent round, Council awarded over $40,000 through 15 grants to a broad range of initiatives.
Funded projects in the last round included support for Ararat and District Eight Ball Association to purchase a second-hand bus to help players travel to tournaments, Ararat Neighbourhood House to purchase two new sewing machines and an overlocker for its sewing group, and Wickliffe Lake Bolac Football Netball Club to upgrade the Lake Bolac Social Rooms with a new fridge and air conditioner.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the grants program continues to deliver practical support for the groups and volunteers who help bring local communities together. "These grants are about backing local people who know what their communities need and are prepared to put in the work to make things happen," Dr Harrison said.
"The previous round showed the breadth of ideas coming forward, from transport and technology, to creative programs, sporting facilities, and community meeting places. It is encouraging to see funding going toward projects that are practical, well-considered, and genuinely useful for local residents."
Dr Harrison said community groups with an idea or project in mind should take the time to review the guidelines and start preparing early. "We know many local groups are run by volunteers, and this funding can make a real difference in helping them improve what they offer, update equipment, or make shared spaces more comfortable and functional," he said.
"Council looks forward to seeing another strong round of applications from across Ararat Rural City when submissions open on 1 June."
Application information, eligibility guidelines, and funding details will be available on Council's website when the round opens.
