New Grant Program to support community infrastructure projects
The new grant program will provide a dedicated funding stream to assist community organisations improve the function, accessibility and longevity of community assets across the district.
The program has been developed in response to ongoing feedback from community members and organisations, many of whom highlighted a ‘missing middle’ in the council’s existing grant offerings.
The 2023 Community Funding Review, as well as recent engagement activities around the Leasing and Licensing Policy and Property Strategy, also identified the need for more support for large, asset-based community projects.
Mayor David Leach said the new program would address a longstanding gap in Council’s support for asset-based community projects.
“Council currently receives an increasing number of requests from community groups seeking funding for facility upgrades, many of which fall outside existing funding avenues,” Mayor Leach said.
“Our community groups play a vital role in managing and activating local spaces. This new grant program is about giving them better access to funding for the essential infrastructure they rely on – from sporting club upgrades to community hall renewals.”
Key features of the program include:
- Minor grants of up to $9,999 with no co-contribution required
- Major Grants between $10,000 and $50,000, with matched funding required
Applications for the infrastructure grant program will open in August 2025, with outcomes advised by November.
Applications will be assessed by the Community Grants Assessment Committee, with final approvals made by the council. Requests exceeding $50,000 will continue to be considered through the Annual Business Plan and Budget process.
The timing of the program is aligned to enable successful applicants to leverage State Government grants, including those from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, which typically close in November.
Mount Barker District Council’s Community Grants Officer, Alyssa Hill maintained that the initiative supports community-led renewal where it’s needed most and ensures Council is making smart, equitable investments in the spaces that bring people together.
“We’ve listened to the feedback from clubs and groups who’ve told us they need more help with facility upgrades,” Ms Hill said.
“We’ll be promoting the program through media, our community email database and grant information sessions. Groups will be supported to develop strong applications, including guidance on co-funding opportunities such as those offered by the State Government’s Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing.”
All applications will include an assessment of required council resources to ensure projects are achievable and sustainable.
The program will be formally reviewed after its first year to assess its effectiveness and community impact.
