Community organisations have chance for funding

APPLICATIONS are open for Lismore City Council’s 2015/16 Annual Community Grants Scheme, with more than $140,000 up for grabs among community organisations.

APPLICATIONS are open for Lismore City Council's 2015/16 Annual Community Grants Scheme, with more than $140,000 up for grabs among community organisations.

The new and improved community grants process was adopted by Council at its April meeting, replacing the complex Section 356 Donations system and streamlining community donations into one simple annual funding round.

The Annual Community Grants Scheme is open to all community organisations who wish to undertake worthwhile community projects or activities in the Lismore Local Government Area, Community Engagement and Partnering Officer, Lizette Twisleton, explained.

"The Section 356 Donations system that had been in place for many years was in need of review and we believe the new system is fair and equitable, with all applications assessed against the same criteria and aligned to our Imagine Lismore 10 Year Plan," Ms Twisleton said.

"The spirit of the grants scheme remains the same - we are looking to fund projects or activities that enrich our community. Council believes that a small amount of money invested in the community can go a long way.

"We are very lucky to have so many vibrant community organisations in our midst.

"The Annual Community Grants Scheme can help inject much-needed funds into local organisations to get small but incredibly worthwhile projects off the ground."

Community groups have until 4pm on May 18 to apply for the Annual Community Grants Scheme.

Application forms as well as detailed application guidelines are available at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.