Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Tuesday, 28 February, 2023. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Improving access and inclusion for people with disabilities in Greater Shepparton – opening soon

The Access and Inclusion Grants Program will offer up to $10,000 to support businesses, community groups and not for profit organisations in improving access and inclusion for people with disabilities within the region. The Grant round will open on 1 March 2023 and closes on 31 March 2023.

There are two funding streams available:

Stream 1 - providing up to $1,000 per successful applicant on a $1 to $1 matching basis for non-structural developments such as website accessibility, literature conversations, event support and technological purchases such as hearing loops and adjustable furniture. The matching contribution in this stream can be in-kind.

Stream 2 - provides funding for up to $10,000 on a 4:1 matching basis, for minor capital works including but not limited to, improving access to premises for people with disabilities, bathroom renovations, lighting and creating a sensory friendly space.

Greater Shepparton Mayor, Cr Shane Sali, said Council wants to make Greater Shepparton a more accessible place to live, work, play and visit for people with disabilities and their families.

“The grants support local businesses, community groups and organisations to be able to provide increased access and inclusion. The funding can be used for minor capital works, including renovations to improve access to services such as ramps, rails and disability parking, or even to develop accessible websites or convert menus and documents into easy English or braille.”

Councillor representative on the Disability Advisory Committee, Cr Sam Spinks, said “we want to make Greater Shepparton accessible for everyone and these grants will help make those changes. Council can assist your business or group in creating a change that will help our community.”

“We welcome all businesses, community groups and not for profit organisations to come along to one of our information sessions to find out more about the grants program or for assistance in completing an application,” she said.

Access and Inclusion Grants Program Information Sessions will be held on Tuesday 28 February and Monday 6 March 2023. Full details of the sessions are below:

Online only

Date: Tuesday 28 February 2023

Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm

Go to bit.ly/accessgrant2023 to register

Shepparton Senior Citizens Centre, 132 Welsford Street, Shepparton OR online.

Date: Monday 6 March 2023

Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm

Go to bit.ly/accessgrant2023shepp to register.

For more information and assistance completing your application, please contact Council’s Access and Inclusion Officer Mark Tomkins by emailing communityadmin@shepparton.vic.gov.au or phoning 03 5832 9700, or head to the Greater Shepparton City Council website.