WITH applications now open, Lowan MP and Deputy Leader of The Nationals’, Emma Kealy has encouraged local history groups to consider applying for funding through the Local History Grants Program, with up to $15,000 available per grant.

Projects which have previously been funded under the program include newspaper and photograph digitisation works, memorial websites, digital histories, oral histories and archiving projects.

Ms Kealy, along with her Victorian Nationals colleagues across regional Victoria, successfully advocated for the continuation of the grants program last year when the Allan Labor Government was proposing to scrap the 23-year-old program.

“The Local History Grants Program helps us celebrate and preserve Victoria’s history for future generations,” Ms Kealy said.

“Community groups across the state do important work showcasing our local history.

“The funding allocation is critical to the ongoing growth and digitisation of the State’s archives and supports the countless community volunteer historical societies who contribute thousands of hours to build and maintain community-based archives.”

Any organisations wishing to apply are encouraged to contact Ms Kealy’s office for a letter of support.

Applications, which can be made online at prov.vic.gov.au close on Monday, December 9.