General News
9 April, 2026
Grants to back community initiatives
COMMUNITY groups, sporting clubs and volunteer organisations across Ararat Rural City, Northern Grampians Shire and Pyrenees Shire are encouraged to bring forward ideas that could deliver lasting local benefits, with the launch of the Western Renewables Link (WRL) Local Grants Fund. The $4 million fund is part of the WRL Benefit Sharing Program, which includes a multi-million dollar community investment designed to directly respond to the challenges of those living in the areas most affected by the proposed transmission line.
“Communities have told us they want to see practical benefits delivered early and shaped around local priorities,” said Western Renewables Link Project Executive, Michael Learmonth.
“The Local Grants Fund is about backing ambitious, community-led ideas that create a lasting legacy, whether that’s improving shared spaces such as playgrounds, parks or sports grounds, supporting nature conservation through tree planting programs, strengthening emergency preparedness or helping communities improve energy resilience.”
“Importantly, applying for or receiving a grant does not indicate support for WRL and doesn’t affect anyone’s right to oppose the project.”
Waubra-based mother Brianna Edmonston, whose community recently received a $200,000 grant from WRL towards a new playground, agreed the fund makes a real difference to local communities.
“WRL’s contribution to our playground project has made a dream a reality for the Waubra community,” she said.
Applications are now open for grants ranging up to $50,000 for smaller initiatives through to $300,000 for larger legacy initiatives supporting ideas that address local priorities and strengthen communities.
The fund if open to community groups in the Ballarat, Hepburn, Melton, Moorabool, Pyrenees, Northern Grampians and Ararat municipalities.
Local Grants Fund guidelines, eligibility criteria and application details are available at www.westernrenewablelink.com.au
Read More: Amphitheatre, Ararat, Avoca, Buangor, Beaufort, Concongella, Elmhurst, Evansford, Glenorchy, Great Western, Halls Gap, Lake Bolac, Landsborough, Lexton, Marnoo, Maroona, Moonambel, Moyston, Pomonal, Redbank, Snake Valley, Stawell, Streatham, Waubra, Willaura