General News
9 September, 2025
Community grants available
Community organisations in Maryborough and nearby towns are invited to apply for funding to help them better support their community, as part of the Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) Victoria program.
Delivered by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR), the IRFC Victoria program is a grassroots initiative designed to build the capacity and long-term sustainability of rural and regional not-for-profits (NFP) across three communities, Colac, Maryborough and Swan Hill.
Over the next five years, Maryborough will benefit from tailored support including grants, workshops and collaborative planning process, all guided by the Maryborough and Surrounds Community Roadmap – a locally developed plan that outlines shared goals and priorities across four key focus areas: people, strategy, systems, and efficiencies.
The grants are designed to strengthen Maryborough’s NFP sector by empowering local organisations to lead change from the ground up.
Over the next 12 months, $216,000 will be available to each community to activate projects responding to the goals in their community roadmap.
FRRR IRCF Victoria Program Manager Jo Kemp said this is a unique opportunity for local organisations to access funding that’s directly aligned with the community’s vision
“We know that strong, well resourced community organisations are essential to thriving rural communities,” she said.
“This program is about investing in the people and systems that make that possible and we are eager to see initiatives led by the community get underway, with the generous support of our donors.
“Eligible NFPs and community groups can apply for grants that directly support the goals set out in the roadmaps. Those interested should get in touch with their local community facilitator to have a chat about their idea and next steps.”
FRRR recently appointed Alistair Shaw as the Maryborough community facilitator.
Mr Shaw has extensive experience supporting community leaders, organisations, and projects across New Zealand and regional Victoria. His work has helped strengthen governance, develop strategic plans, and secure grants for hundreds of community groups. He also coordinates Volunteering Loddon Mallee across 10 LGAs, facilitates workshops on gender equality and preventing gendered violence and has a strong arts background.
The community facilitator plays a key role in supporting local organisations to develop and deliver projects that align with the community roadmap, acting as an important conduit between the community and FRRR.
For those who wish to apply, eligible organisation must be locally-governed NFPs based in Maryborough or nearby townships connected through services or other means. Projects must be charitable in nature and deliver a clear public benefit.
There is no minimum or maximum grant amount (within the scope of the available program funds) or closing date, allowing flexibility to meet local needs. All funding applications must align with at least one of the goals identified in the community roadmap.
To find out more about the Maryborough and Surrounds Community Roadmap and read the program guidelines, information is available at frrr.org.au/funding/ircf-vic/maryborough.
Those interested in applying will first need to contact the community facilitator Mr Shaw on 0413 197 848.