Creative change grants back 6 projects across Moyne

Published on 28 October 2025

Moyne Shire Council has awarded $24,000 in funding to six local creative projects through the inaugural round of its Creative Change Grants Program.

The new initiative aims to strengthen the Shire’s creative ecology by supporting artists, collectives, and local organisations to deliver projects that foster innovation, collaboration and community connection.

Council allocated $15,000 to launch the program in 2025/26 and successfully leveraged an additional $9,000 co-contribution from the Fletcher Jones Family Foundation (FJFF), allowing more projects to be supported.

Mayor Cr Karen Foster said the response to the first round showed the depth of talent and ambition within Moyne’s creative community.

“We were thrilled to see such strong interest in this inaugural round - it’s clear that creativity is thriving right across Moyne,” Cr Foster said.

“Through this partnership with the FJFF, Council has been able to double the number of projects funded under the program. These initiatives will activate spaces, tell local stories, and provide valuable professional development opportunities for local artists.”

“The partnership highlighted the power of collaboration in boosting local projects and celebrating creativity across the Shire.”

The program received 13 eligible applications, seeking more than $55,000 in total funding — almost four times the Council’s available budget for 2025/2026. Projects ranged from visual arts and storytelling to writing mentorships and a creative collective.

The six successful applications reflect the diversity of creative practice across the Shire and the strong demand for opportunities to experiment, collaborate and grow.

Key highlights:

• $24,000 total funding pool shared across six creative projects
• 13 eligible applications received – over $55,000 in requests
• Co-investment of $9,000 from the Fletcher Jones Family Foundation
• Projects span Koroit, Port Fairy, Mortlake and Macarthur/Hawkesdale
• Focus on innovation, collaboration and community participation

Cr Foster said the program’s success underlines the value of supporting local creative enterprise as part of a vibrant regional economy.

“Investing in creativity isn’t just about art — it’s about connection, identity and economic opportunity. The Creative Change Grants will help spark new ideas, build capacity and showcase the incredible talent we have here in Moyne.”

Lisa McLeod, Executive Officer at the FJFF, said Moyne Shire’s Creative Change grants and the FJFF grants share the same goal - helping local people turn creative ideas into community change.

“Both back projects that celebrate local stories, build skills, and strengthen connections. Moyne supports creative projects that bring life to public spaces, while Fletcher Jones funding helps those ideas grow and create lasting social impact across the region,” said Ms McLeod.”

“By co-funding projects, the partnership leverages available resources and maximises outcomes through collaboration and shared value,” she said.

Council will continue to monitor outcomes from this first round to inform future program delivery and funding levels, ensuring ongoing support for the Shire’s growing creative sector.