The Nationals leader and Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh, says grants of as much as $100,000 are available to build, replace, extend or upgrade local Men’s Sheds.
Mr Walsh says the money – through the latest round of the Men’s Shed Funding Program – would be a significant bonus for any of the sheds in his electorate.
He describes the sheds as “irreplaceable community hubs” which are playing increasingly important roles as valuable points of connection for local men.
“The Men’s Sheds in my electorate – including Australia’s first shed at Tongala – are a welcoming place where men can go to talk to other men, put their skills to good use and support each other,” Mr Walsh explains.
“And they are not just for retirees, they are a fantastic introduction for anyone new to an area, anyone wanting to try something new or even if you just want to meet some new people,” he says.
“It’s always great to visit Men’s Sheds and see the valuable work they are doing in regional Victoria, not only for their own members but also to support the wider community.”
There are now more than 325 Men’s Sheds established across Victoria since Tongala first opened its doors in 1998.
Applications for the funding close on October 16.
More information is available online at www.vic.gov.au/mens-shed-funding-program.