All applications are assessed by a panel with representatives from North East Link Program (NELP), and the State Government, with involvement from local councils.
The grants and partnerships program is a competitive process and applications are assessed against the assessment criteria in the North East Community Fund guidelines.
Priority funding is given to projects in areas that are most impacted by construction. We expect that the fund’s priorities, eligibility requirements and assessment criteria will change and evolve as construction progresses.
There will be funding rounds each year during the construction of North East Link. The next round of funding will open in 2024.
Incorporated not-for-profit organisations and community groups in the City of Banyule, City of Manningham, City of Whitehorse, City of Boroondara, City of Whittlesea, Nillumbik Shire and the City of Yarra can apply.
Priority will be given to projects in areas most impacted by construction. Funding to date has been focused on suburbs close to North East Link tunnelling construction, including Watsonia, Yallambie, Greensborough, Macleod, Bulleen and Heidelberg. As works progress on the M80 Ring Road Completion and Eastern Freeway Upgrades, the fund will also support local areas near these works.
Organisations can apply for grants up to $75,000 for projects and initiatives that benefit the local community.
Examples of projects that could be funded are tree planting at a local park, a local street festival, social or recreational program for seniors, uniforms for a local netball club, signage for a local community centre, a community art exhibition, and an accessibility upgrade to a community centre.
Proposed projects should improve community connectedness, meet community needs, and enhance community cohesion by bringing people together to participate in local activities and initiatives.
