Welcome funding for our local not-for-profit sector
Published on 24 March 2025
Central Goldfields Shire has been selected as one of three Victorian communities to become partners in a $5 million not-for-profit sector capability building program.
Council supported the Maryborough Volunteer Resource Group (MVRG) and other community-based organisations to apply for funding through the Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program provided by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR).
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Cr Grace La Vella said it was a huge coup for the Central Goldfields Shire to be selected following an extensive community consultation process.
“A big congratulations to MVRG and all our local community organisations that came together to make the submission and attend the workshops throughout the process.
“It is your energy and commitment to the process that has ultimately led to Maryborough and district being chosen as one of the three communities in Victoria to receive this significant opportunity.
“We have so many great community groups and organisations doing wonderful things in our community – but we also know many of them are facing increasing pressures.
“This program means there will be support available to help strengthen their capability and resilience so that they can continue to deliver the vital services they provide our community.
“The program will be rolled out over five years, with the program to provide access tailored support and grant funding of approximately $600,000.
“The funding will be directed towards various projects that align with the community’s priorities – with a locally based facilitator to lead the program with support from MVRG, community groups and Council.”
Maryborough Volunteer Resource Group President Tony Macer said on behalf of all our local not-for-profit organisations, the MVRG was absolutely thrilled with the announcement.
“It’s fantastic our hard work and collaboration over the past six months has been rewarded by what amounts to a $1 million investment in our community by FRRR.
“I have always been impressed by the outstanding commitment of our grass roots groups and local volunteers. This has clearly been recognised by the FRRR at our recent workshops.
“In these challenging times for not-for-profits, I’m sure the expert guidance of the FRRR and the associated funding over five years can reinvigorate our community groups and make our community more liveable and engaging for all.
“This has been a collaborative team effort, and we are so excited to get started!”
The program aims to:
- Provide tailored support with access to a locally based Community Facilitator who will assist them in navigating the program and maximising their impact on the community.
- Facilitate community workshops to foster collaboration, share resources, and develop strategies among local organisations.
- Provide an opportunity for community-wide conversations to identify shared goals and create a Community Roadmap that guides their actions and initiatives.
- Provide funding for projects to support a range of priorities, including capacity building, organisational systems, volunteerism, and local partnerships. Examples of successful projects from other communities include sustainable energy initiatives and strategic capacity-building plans.
- Provide networking opportunities to build stronger partnerships with other NFPs, leading to enhanced collaboration and resource sharing.
It is the first time the program has been rolled out in Victoria – with the program piloted and delivered in eight NSW communities since 2018.
The program is made possible thanks to four Victorian philanthropic organisations – Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, Jack Brockhoff Foundation, The Ross Trust and William Buckland Foundation.
For more information – the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal is available to access here: Three VIC communities selected for $5M program | FRRR