The Victorian Government has opened applications for this year's Local Government Youth Inclusion Grants, calling on regional and rural councils to apply to share in $270,000.

 

State Minister for Youth Affairs, Ryan Smith, said the grants will provide an opportunity for young people to get involved in their local community and create meaningful change.

 

"Young people today are our leaders of tomorrow and it is important that they connect with and shape their communities, as well as providing ideas on how to build and develop our local communities," Mr Smith said.

 

"There are nine grants of up to $30,000 currently available and I encourage all eligible regional and rural councils to apply," Mr Smith said.

 

Examples of how the funding can be used include:

  • establishing a youth reference group to work with Council to develop a Youth Charter;
  • establishing a youth advisory committee to participate in Council planning and decision-making;
  • facilitating a youth summit to identify opportunities for young people to provide feedback on a range of community planning issues; or
  • supporting a youth action group to work with council staff to develop an online, social media process to engage and consult with diverse groups of young people

 

 

The grants are a component of the State Government's $3.2 million Shape It! program which aims to improve the retention and attraction of young people to rural and regional Victoria.

 

Applications close on 31 October 2012 and more information can be found at www.youth.vic.gov.au