Local facilitators appointed
Community organisations in Colac, Maryborough, Swan Hill and nearby townships 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 & Regional Renewal (FRRR), the IRCF Victoria program is a grassroots initiative designed to build the capacity and long-term sustainability of rural and regional not-for-profit organisations (NFPs).
Over the next five years, these communities will benefit from tailored support including grants, workshops and collaborative planning processes, all guided by Community Roadmaps created collaboratively in May 2025. These documents outline shared goals and priorities across four key focus areas: people, strategy, systems and efficiencies.
The grants are designed to strengthen the not-for-profit 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.
“We know that strong, well-resourced community organisations are essential to thriving rural communities. This is a unique opportunity for local organisations to access funding that’s directly aligned with the community’s vision, and at a time that works for them,” said Jo Kemp, FRRR’s IRCF Victoria Program Manager.
“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, thanks to 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 three Community Facilitators, who will act as conduits between the communities and FRRR and play a key role in supporting local organisations to develop and deliver projects responding to the Roadmaps.
How to apply
Eligible organisations must be locally-governed NFPs based in Colac, Maryborough, Swan Hill or nearby townships connected through services or other means. Projects must be charitable in nature and deliver 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 Roadmap.
To explore the Community Roadmaps and read the program guidelines, visit your local IRCF Victoria community page – Colac; Maryborough; Swan Hill. If you’re interested in applying, you first need to contact the local Community Facilitator, whose details are on the respective webpage.
The program is made possible thanks to the generous support of four philanthropic partners: Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, Jack Brockhoff Foundation, The Ross Trust, and William Buckland Foundation.