Community groups in Clarinda are being encouraged to apply for a new multi-million-dollar funding program as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) – delivering local projects and initiatives that enhance local living ahead of the opening of the rail line.

Minister for Suburban Rail Loop Jacinta Allan today announced the establishment of the SRL Community Projects Fund, which over the life of the project, will support enhancements to communities from Cheltenham to Box Hill in preparation for the delivery of SRL East.

Funding rounds will be offered each year during construction of SRL East, in conjunction with community groups, councils and other local organisations, to support and deliver exciting new initiatives and projects big and small.

Member for Clarinda, Meng Heang Tak welcomed the opening of applications on Thursday 31 March for the Community Support Grants. Not-for-profits, sports clubs and schools can apply for between $10,000 – $80,000 for their exciting local initiatives, with the grants to be awarded later this year.

The Community Projects Fund will focus on projects that support and enhance the people and places that will ultimately be served by the transformational rail project across Melbourne’s middle suburbs.

Eligible projects could include new and improved open spaces and facilities such as parks, playgrounds, community hubs, sports club upgrades and new equipment, or support for community events and festivals.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Director and Chief Executive Professor Tim Entwisle is leading an expert panel to advise SRLA on open space initiatives in the SRL East Precincts, building on his outstanding work on the Caulfield to Dandenong section of the Level Crossings Removal Project.

SRL East’s twin tunnels will link six new underground stations at major suburban employment, education, health and retail precincts, attracting new jobs, housing and other opportunities to these areas.  Initial construction works will start this year, with the project to create up to 8,000 local jobs.

The Environment Effects Statement process is ongoing for SRL East, with the Inquiry and Advisory Committee hearings underway. For more information about the SRL Community Projects Fund and to apply for a grant, visit suburbanrailloop.vic.gov.au/communityfund.

Quote attributable to Minister for Suburban Rail Loop Jacinta Allan

“Suburban Rail Loop is more than a rail line – it will play an essential role in supporting our suburbs as Melbourne grows in the decades ahead – and this fund is another way local communities will have a say in shaping their neighbourhoods.”

Quote attributable to Meng Heang Tak, Member for Clarinda

“Suburban Rail Loop will deliver Clayton Station for Clarinda District locals, connecting the community from Cheltenham to Box Hill.

“I encourage local groups to apply for an SRL Community Support Grant, to help make our community even better.”