Eight regional golf clubs across Victoria are in for major upgrades thanks to the State Government, with courses to be modernised as participation increases.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today announced the State Government is investing over $400,000 towards golf course infrastructure projects from Leongatha to Barwon Valley, through the Golf Infrastructure Fund.
Funded projects include more than $37,000 towards a water saving fairway irrigation system at Mirboo North Golf Club as well as $124,000 for a new undercover driving range at the Barwon Valley Golf Club.
There’s also $101,000 to help Nagambie Golf Club install an irrigation system to three of its fairways and $10,000 towards an upgrade of the practice facilities at Leongatha Golf Club.
Golf in Victoria contributes an estimated $883 million to the state’s economy and supports 6900 jobs with more than 300,000 Victorians playing golf at more than 350 courses across the state.
Since 2018, the Fund has invested over $1.7 million to support 18 golf infrastructure projects and is part of the Government’s $7.46 million Supporting Growth of Golf Clubs Around Victoria initiative.
The initiative has also contributed $15.3 million for the new home of golf in Australia at the Sandringham Golf Course and $160,000 to support the successful Golf Scholarship Program.
Better golf facilities make it easier for players and supporters of all abilities to get involved in the sport and for clubs to stage major tournaments.
Backed by the Government’s Golf Tourism Strategy 2018-23, Victoria is also getting on with boosting its global reputation as the place for major golf tournaments – recently securing the Presidents Cup in 2028 and 2040 under a new agreement between the Government and the PGA Tour.
For more info about the program including the latest grant recipients visit sport.vic.gov.au.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said:
“This program is about supporting the growth of golf and encouraging more people regardless of their age or skill level to play and enjoy the sport.”
“It’s all about giving our community clubs even stronger foundations so more people can have a swing and the future of the game is even brighter at a local level.”
President of the Mirboo North Golf Club Inc Robert Clark said:
“Making our course sustainable and available all year round has been a real game changer for our community. We’d like to thank the Government for this grant.”

The historic Trentham Mechanics Institute is set to be transformed into a new community hub that will help bring locals together for events big and small, thanks to support from the State Government.

Minister for Regional Development and Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today announced the start of construction of the Trentham Community Hub, backed by a $3.5 million investment from the State Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund.
The funding will enable the council to extend and renovate the existing Mechanics Institute to deliver new spaces including a library, function and meeting rooms – creating more space for the Trentham community to gather and participate in local events.
The council will also operate a new visitor information centre and customer service centre within the hub, giving locals and visitors access to key facilities in a single location.
Initial works will involve asbestos removal, demolition and site preparation. Up to 26 jobs will be created during the hub’s construction with another five ongoing jobs to be supported once the project is completed late next year.
Established in 1881, the Trentham Mechanics Institute was turned into a town hall in 1938. Mechanics institutes were located across Victoria and offered education for tradesmen, with many since restored as community centres
and libraries. The Government is also supporting Trentham with over $2 million through the Community Sport Infrastructure Stimulus Program for the Trentham Sportsground Reserve Pavilion Redevelopment.
The $178 million sports infrastructure program has backed 70 projects worth $335 million, generating more than 800 jobs.
The redevelopment will deliver a community sports facility that delivers all abilities access, gender neutral
changerooms and a family-friendly design for sports clubs and the community.
The Regional Infrastructure Fund is part of the Government’s flagship Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund and is key to the Government’s record investment of more than $36 billion across regional and rural Victoria since 2015.
The State Government has invested more than $700 million in its Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund since 2015 – supporting around 13,000 jobs and delivering 1,000 projects.
Information and guidelines for the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund can be found at rdv.vic.gov.au/rjif
Minister for Regional Development and Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“This is a really exciting time for Trentham as we see the community’s aspirations come to fruition.”
“I’m confident that the new hub is going to breathe new life into the Mechanics Institute providing an asset the whole community can enjoy for many years to come, while supporting local jobs.”

The State Government today celebrated the historic, nation leading agreement to establish the Treaty
Authority, reaffirming the delivery of treaty, truth and justice in Victoria.

Premier Daniel Andrews, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria gathered on Gadubanud Country of the Eastern Maar people in Lorne, where in ceremony, an agreement was signed.
Treaty is about doing things differently and about proudly embracing Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority.
The exchange symbolises the agreement reached between the Victorian Government and the Assembly to establish the Treaty Authority, an independent umpire that will oversee Treaty negotiations
The Treaty Authority Bill was introduced into the Victorian Parliament on 7 June, giving the independent body the legal powers it needs to facilitate Treaty negotiations and resolve disputes between parties.
The Treaty Authority will be a nation-leading institution without precedent, drawing on international best practice but adapted for Victoria to ensure Aboriginal lore, law and cultural authority are observed and upheld.
Assembly Member Aunty Charmaine Clarke presented the Premier with a message stick, giving him permission to address the Assembly. The Premier spoke of how Treaty will change the shape of Victoria’s cultural landscape, and
how Victorians view and understand our identity, history, and future.
Premier Daniel Andrews said:
“As the Uluru Statement from the Heart tells us, the only way future generations can flourish is when Aboriginal people have power over their own destiny – Treaty will help us achieve this.”
“I’m honoured today to be invited to address the First People’s Assembly of Victoria and celebrate with them the important step of establishing the independent Treaty Authority.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams said:
“Treaty is about doing things differently. Today, we’re on Country signing the agreement for the Treaty Authority – another step towards achieving genuine self-determination for Aboriginal Victorians.”
First Peoples Assembly Co-Chair Aunty Geraldine Atkinson said:
“Ours is the oldest living culture on the planet. It’s clear that our lore and law has stood the test of time and I’m overjoyed and very proud to see it being embedded into the very core of the new institutions we’re creating to get Treaty done.”
First Peoples Assembly Co-Chair Marcus Stewart said:
“If we want Treaty to deliver, if we want it to improve the lives of our people, we have to think outside the colonial system and instead put Aboriginal culture at the heart of all we do. I’m pleased to say this agreement does that.”

Agriculture Victoria’s irrigation team have revised and updated the Irrigation System Selection and Design Guidelines website which includes new information to better meet the needs of todays irrigators.

The updated website is easily navigated and has a broad range of helpful resourses including new instructional videos, animations, podcasts, drone footage, information notes and case studies to maximise an irrigator’s ability to access information. 

Farm and Environment Working Group Chair, Alfred Heuperman, recently launched the Irrigation System Selection Risk Management tool at a function held at Tatura. 

Agriculture Victoria Senior Irrigation Extension Officer Rabi Maskey said this web-based tool will assist irrigators and service providers to make better decisions when selecting new, or considering improvements to their existing irrigation systems.

“The updated website provides answers to more than 90 frequently asked questions, packaged under five key steps, and will guide users through a logical decision-making process.”

The website has been tested with potential target audiences, including service providers and irrigators.

The five steps consider:

1.         What do I want to achieve?

2.         What are my farm’s features and constraints?

3.         What irrigation options should I consider?

4.         What needs to be included in my design and management and what will it cost?

5.         What option best meets my goal?

Mr Maskey said each of these steps includes detail and description to assist users in their decision-making process, in a easy to follow approach. 

“Ultimately, it is our aim that irrigators will be better informed when making decisions on what irrigation system best suits their needs and assist them to better manage their irrigation risks.”

The updated tool can be accessed at:  https://bit.ly/ISSDG2022

The project was funded by the Agriculture Victoria Smarter Safer Farms Initative with support from the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority and North Central Catchment Management Authority.

The Healthy Landscapes Practical Regenerative Agricultural Communities program has been extended until 2024.

This unique program supports farmers and rural land managers with regenerative agricultural training and advice and is a collaboration between Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Hepburn Shire Council, the City of Greater Bendigo, Melbourne Water, A Healthy Coliban Catchment project (North Central Catchment Management Authority and Coliban Water), and the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network. All parties have committed in-kind and financial support to allow the program’s continuance for another two years.
The aim of the Healthy Landscapes project is to enhance the capacity of rural landowners to implement sustainable land management practices and regenerative grazing techniques that improve soil health, reduce exposure to climate risks, sequester carbon and reduce emissions, and enhance biodiversity and waterway health.
In the last twelve months, the program has delivered popular grass identification workshops, a holistic grazing course, a small property management course and many other events and webinars to over 875 participants.
The program was recognised with a 2021 Premier’s Sustainability Award for its success in facilitating practice change on properties.
Mayor Cr Jennifer Anderson said there has been ongoing demand for this program and Council is pleased to continue to support rural landowners in a way that helps the environment and their enterprise.
“Providing ongoing education and advice is vital to seeing landholders implement land management practices that improve both the natural environment and agricultural productivity. The continuation of this program would not be possible without our partnership with the other shires and organisations,” she said.
Program participant, James Edmonds from Romsey said, “I have changed everything and have enjoyed and appreciated the new understanding this program has given me. The results are real and immediate.”
Over the next two years, the program will continue to offer:
 Free individual on-farm advice
 Holistic grazing management course
 Small property grazing management course
 Webinars, Field Days and Discussion Groups
 Regular Healthy Landscapes newsletter
For more information or to subscribe to the newsletter visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Healthy-Landscapes

The State Government is continuing to support multicultural communities to celebrate their history and
culture by building and improving dedicated community facilities.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence today announced the opening of a new round of the Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund, which allows organisationsto apply for grants of up to $500,000 to carry out works to improve their community facilities.
The program also increases the safety and accessibility of infrastructure, enabling Victoria’s multicultural
communities to continue delivering essential services that promote diversity, social cohesion and connection.
Previous projects funded under the program include Australian Multicultural Community Services’ Millennium House to support the rebuild of their Seddon hub and the Association of Ukrainians in Victoria’s Central Essendon Branch with funds for internal structural upgrades.
The Bhaddeka Vihari Padanama’s Ripplebrook Meditation Hall in Baw Baw Shire was also provided funding to support their external extension.
Two streams of funding are available for projects that are to be completed by 31 October 2023. Rural, regional and new and emerging communities’ applications will be prioritised.
Applications are now open and close at 3pm on Monday 18 July 2022.
The continued investment in the fund is part of $6.4 million in the Victorian Budget 2022-23 for multicultural community infrastructure.
For more information or to apply, visit: vic.gov.au/multicultural-community-infrastructure-fund
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence said:
“We’re continuing to support multicultural communities by providing this further funding – which will allow organisations to upgrade, renovate and build dedicated community facilities.”
“These facilities are important for multicultural communities to continue delivering essential services that promote diversity, social cohesion and connection.”

Almost 40 Victorians have been confirmed to compete at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games next month, with the State Government backing our top athletes through the Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS).

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today announced 32 athletes and seven para-athletes from the VIS have been selected to represent Australia at the Games. Further selections will occur in coming weeks and around 70 Victorians are expected to make the trip to Birmingham.
The confirmed selections include Gronya Somerville who will be competing in badminton at her third
Commonwealth Games. She is also a champion of the Dutch and Canadian Opens.
Dual Olympian Katharina Haecker will be going for gold in judo, while Angela Yu will be carrying on a family tradition of competing in badminton – her mother He Tian Tang won bronze at the 2010 Games in Delhi.
Echuca young gun Col Pearse is also looking to make a statement in Birmingham, after winning bronze in the men’s 100 metre butterfly S10 event at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
The athletes will be joined by eight VIS staff who have been selected to key roles including Physiotherapy
Manager Steve Hawkins who has been appointed Head Physiotherapist for the Australian team.
The State Government more than doubled its contribution to the VIS in the 2021/22 Budget to significantly expand operations and nurture our next generation of sporting stars, bringing the total funding to $44.6 million over three years.
This has enabled the Institute to support more than 130 athletes prepare for a shot at selection to the
Birmingham Games, and now to follow their dream to represent their country at the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games and Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games.
At the Gold Coast four years ago, Australia led the medal tally with 80 gold, 59 silver and 59 bronze. Of those, VIS athletes won 11 gold, 12 silver, and 10 bronze medals.
The Birmingham Commonwealth Games start on 28 July and will feature 24 sports and eight para-sports.
After that, regional Victoria will take centre stage as the host of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Victoria 2026 will create a new multi-city model for the Commonwealth Games with four regional hubs
established in Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland, each with their own athlete’s village and sport program.
For details on all the athletes selected, go to vis.org.au
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula said:
“We proudly back our world-class athletes through the Victorian Institute of Sport, which has a formidable
reputation in bringing out the best in our local athletes.”
“Hosting the Commonwealth Games in four years’ time will deliver major benefits, particularly in the regions, and leave a lasting legacy for the growth and development of sport throughout Victoria.”

A free photography exhibition that showcases the diverse experiences of multicultural communities is now underway in Melbourne.

The Capturing Culture: Multicultural Victoria in Focus exhibition includes 24 unique photographs that reflect the personal stories of multicultural artists and capture moments at the heart of every community.
The photographs were shortlisted from 120 submissions in a competition hosted by the Victorian Multicultural Commission, in partnership with the Immigration Museum and sponsored by Commonwealth Bank, Jobs Victoria and Segmento.
Competition winners were announced at the exhibition launch at the Immigration Museum on Thursday – and were awarded prizes to support their creative endeavors. Their photographs represent the best of entries submitted in four categories; Days of Significance and Cultural Celebration, Faces, Daily Life and Resilience.
Winners included Clement Chua, who captured Federation Square’s Buddha Festival, Deshani Berhardt, who used light and shadow to illustrate the duality of pandemic experiences, Ammar None, who captured a moment of companionship in daily life and Nanchok Santino Chol, whose photograph depicts resilience through the proud poses of South Sudanese women.
A Minister’s Choice Award was also presented to Alejandra Olavarria for their artwork ‘The Love You Give’, which reflects the artist’s insight that ‘the soul of resilience multiplies in the women holding communities together’.
The Capturing Culture: Multicultural Victoria in Focus exhibition is being held at the Immigration Museum in Melbourne until 26 June 2022.
More information can be found online at: multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au/capturing-culture
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence said:
“It’s great to see the talent of these artists being showcased at this exhibition right here in Melbourne.”
“The exhibition captures the diverse experiences of multicultural communities and is a powerful way to share their stories to Victorians – in a way most have not seen before.”
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson Viv Nguyen AM said:
“The exhibition has managed to capture the diverse lived experiences of Victoria’s multicultural communities, creating a visual record of a unique time in Victoria’s history.”
“Art is a powerful medium to showcase the stories of multicultural communities. This competition has captured and celebrated the important stories of multicultural communities, literally through their own eyes.”

The rates of mental health problems and suicide are higher in regional areas and worryingly, they continue to increase, prompting the Macedon Ranges Shire community to take action.

Mental Health First Aid® has recognised Macedon Ranges Shire as a ‘Champion Community’ for its commitment to improving the mental health of young people and the adults who support them.

• Their ‘Champion Community’ status is an acknowledgment of their sustained effort to successfully embed Mental Health First Aid (MHFATM) training, via the Live4Life model, into local education providers, secondary schools, and the wider Macedon Ranges Shire community.
• The Mental Health First Aid Champion Communities Program supports and recognises communities who invest in developing mental health first aid skills within their local community setting in a planned, integrated, and sustainable way.
• This strategy responds to youth mental health issues at a critical time. In Australia, around 20% of young people aged 11 to 17 have experienced either high or very high levels of psychological distress (AIHW, 2020)
• Sadly, suicide also remains a leading cause of death for young people under 25, and the statistical risk of attempted or completed suicide is often over-represented in Australia’s rural and regional communities.

The State Government is introducing mandatory reporting and collection of key data to improve transparency and promote responsible rehoming of animals in shelters and pounds.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas visited the Geelong Animal Welfare Society to announce nation leading changes to the Code of Practice for the Management of Dogs and Cats in Shelters and Pounds (the Code).
It will be compulsory for shelters and pounds to report a variety of data on the dogs and cats that come into their care including the data on the number of animals euthanised. This also includes if the animal is reclaimed by its owner, enters foster care or is rehomed.
If an animal is euthanised, the reasons for euthanasia will also need to be reported.
Victoria will be the first state to collect and publish such comprehensive data, which will be made available via an online, state-wide report.
This builds on existing measures in the Code, which sets a minimum standard of care and record keeping for animals in shelters and pounds. While the existing Code requires records to be collected and kept for five years, it
previously did not require shelters or pounds to report to government or publish any data recorded.  
The data received will be used to better understand the volume of activity and challenges faced by shelters and pounds.
In recognition of its quality services, the Geelong Animal Welfare Society recently received $41,000 through the
State Government’s Animal Welfare Fund Grant Program to improve accommodation at its cat shelter.
Animal welfare is a priority of the State Government, with a record $18.6 million package to support animal care and protection in the Victorian Budget 2022/23. In addition to the new Code, the Government will increase transparency in the rehoming sector in response to recommendations from the Taskforce on Rehoming Pets.
Victoria’s first Pet Census will also gather information to ensure pets and their owners have the support and services they need.
More information about the Code can be found at agriculture.vic.gov.au
Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“These changes to the Code of Practice will be a positive step for our state – giving the community the confidence
that Victoria’s much-loved cats and dogs are receiving the care they deserve.”
Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville said:
“We know how important pets are to the lives of many Victorians – this is why we are supporting the care and rehoming of animals in shelters and pounds.”
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said:
“GAWS do a wonderful job looking after domestic animals, as do all animal shelters and pounds across the state.
These changes will improve animal welfare throughout Victoria.”
Geelong Animal Welfare Society CEO Helen Cocks said:
“At GAWS we are passionate about animal welfare and we strongly support any changes that will improve
outcomes for animals.”

At the one-year mark following the devastating flood and storm event last June, the State Government is continuing to support those in Hepburn Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire and surrounds with practical support to help them build back better and stronger.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today visited Trentham Fire Station, which was used as a Local Command Facility for four days following the storm event, operating 24 hours a day to help coordinate local response efforts. The station was a central point for those assisting on the ground, including CFA, VICSES, Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police.
Trentham CFA received $17,000 for a new generator through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program following the storm.
The storm and flood had a significant impact across the region. In Hepburn Shire, more than 45 per cent of the shire experienced damage, with 10,000 trees down and 220 roads damaged. In Macedon Ranges, 345 properties reported asset damage.
The free clean-up of damaged and destroyed structures and debris on residential properties was jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments. The $105 million project cleaned-up over 1,000 residential properties statewide, including 133 in Hepburn Shire and 167 in Macedon Ranges Shire.
To manage the large volumes of fallen trees and debris, an innovative green waste facility was established in Romsey. Since its opening, the facility has processed more than 13,000 tonnes of trees and storm debris which have now been returned to the community as timber, fence posts, sleepers, stakes, firewood, mulch and sawdust.
Councils play a major role in helping people after recovery and can face significant resource demands in supporting their community. The Government has invested $8.2 million to help affected councils coordinate and drive recovery locally, including to help process planning matters quickly.
The Government will also invest a further $4.76 million to extend this funding to eight affected councils for another 12 months, including Macedon Ranges Shire and Hepburn Shire, ensuring they are resourced for the long-term recovery journey ahead.
The $13.8 million recovery support package announced following the disaster provided dedicated and ongoing recovery case support. It has since provided a gateway for 2,200 Victorians seeking advice, accommodation, insurance, health, wellbeing and financial support.
The Government has also streamlined planning requirements and the application process to help residents rebuild faster and will continue working with locals on the challenges people are facing – particularly where rebuilding in bushfire-prone areas when material and labour are in high demand.
Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“Recovering from a disaster is complex and takes time – we’re continuing to provide support to local families, businesses and communities who were affected by this unprecedented event.”
“We can’t change what these communities have been through, but we are doing what we can make recovery that little bit easier and build back better and stronger.”

The popular Daylesford Spa Country Railway – damaged in the significant flood and storm event in 2021 – is one of several local tourist assets and community facilities in Hepburn Shire receiving recovery funding from the Victorian and Federal Governments, with clean-up works already underway.

The $7 million statewide community clean-up effort is jointly funded between the Commonwealth and the Victorian Governments and will clean up the damaged heritage railway, walking trails, recreation reserves and fire access tracks in Hepburn and Macedon Ranges.
In Trentham, trees that are blocking walking trails will be cleared from parts of the Wombat Trail and Domino Rail Trail to help efforts to reopen the trails.
Racecourse, Stony Creek and Trent Creek Reserves in Trentham will also see clean up works, along with the Rail Reserve from Lyonville to Bullarto.
The works are jointly funded through Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and cover the demolition and removal of hazardous trees and structures in community assets located on public land.
Projects were identified in consultation with local councils and are aimed at supporting community connectedness, safety and wellbeing.
Bushfire Recovery Victoria is delivering the flood and storm clean-up program in partnership with Johns Lyng Group, Australia’s largest disaster recovery specialist.
The widespread damage following the June 2021 flood and storm event left a complex clean-up job, and damaged homes were prioritised.
With the work to clean up damaged homes successfully completed on schedule, the effort turns to supporting community assets – clearing the path to full recovery and giving a boost to local economy. Clean-up works commenced last week on many of the projects.
The $105 million state-coordinated flood and storm clean-up program is jointly funded by the Federal and Victorian Governments.
For more information, visit vic.gov.au/storm-clean-up-program. Information on disaster assistance is available on the Federal Government’s Disaster Assist website at disasterassist.gov.au.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“We can’t change what these communities went through, but we are doing what we can to make the recovery journey that little bit easier and help rejuvenate the local economy.”
“These are vital community assets that are part of what makes Hepburn and Macedon Ranges such a great place to live and visit – we’re getting on with the wider clean up so communities can recover and welcome more visitors back to the region.”

The State Government has secured the long-term future of the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne – with the world’s top motorsport category to continue racing at Albert Park until at least 2035.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today announced the extension of the deal to host the race for a further 10 years after the current contract ends in 2025.
The State Government has negotiated the longest extension since the Grand Prix was brought to Victoria from South Australia in 1996.
A recent economic impact assessment of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix 2022, conducted by EY, estimates that this year’s event generated $92 million of direct spending in the economy and boosted Victoria’s Gross State Product by $171 million.
Crowd numbers show the appetite for Formula 1 racing in Victoria is strong, with this year’s estimated attendance a record-breaking 419,000 across the four days. Melbourne’s bars and restaurants buzzed with visitors and hotel occupancy peaked at more than 90 per cent during Grand Prix week in April.
Images of Melbourne and Victoria’s regions were seen by over 3 million Australians and millions more around the globe – a powerful advertisement for Victoria.
The new agreement will result in Melbourne enjoying hosting rights for the Australian Grand Prix for a total of 40 years since the event moved to Victoria in 1996.
To add to the international appeal of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, Formula 2 and Formula 3 racing will be added to the event from 2023.
Major events generate economic benefits of around $2.5 billion a year to Victoria’s economy, with Melbourne proudly hosting the AFL Grand Final, the Australian Open tennis and Spring Racing Carnival.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula said:
“The Australian Grand Prix has never been bigger, with more than 419,000 people flocking to Albert Park for this year’s race. We know how important this event is to our economy and that’s why we’ve delivered the longest extension for the race since it has been held in Melbourne.”
Formula 1® President & CEO Stefano Domenicali said:
“I am delighted to confirm that Melbourne and the Albert Park circuit will continue to be on the Formula 1 calendar until 2035. The race has always been a favourite for the fans, drivers and the teams and Melbourne is an incredible and vibrant international city that is a perfect match for our sport.”
Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chairman Paul Little AO said:
“The resounding popularity of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix for over two decades stepped up to a new level in 2022 and the addition of F2 and F3 means that future events will continue to offer new races for fans to enjoy.”

The State Government is helping volunteers and young people across Victoria protect and restore our natural environment.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the opening of two grant rounds – the 2022 Victorian Landcare Grants and the 2022 Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants.

Under the 2022 Victorian Landcare Grants, more than $3.3 million is available for grants of up to $20,000 – for projects that protect, enhance, and restore Victoria’s land and environment. Grants of up to $500 are also available to help with group administration and running costs.

The grants are open to environmental volunteering groups, including Landcare groups and networks, Friends groups, Conservation Management Networks, Committees of Management, Coastcare groups and Aboriginal groups to support the important work they do for our land and environment.

Last year 206 project grants and 282 support grants were provided, funding a range of projects including the restoration of habitat for the Southern Brown Bandicoot Habitat at Koo Wee Rup North, tree plantings and fencing to protect a wetland near Ararat and weed removal at the Uralla Nature Reserve in Gippsland.

As part of the 2022 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants, $450,000 of funding will be provided to environmental projects at Victorian schools, kindergartens, preschools, childcare centres and other youth groups.

Grants of up to $5,000 will be available for projects that provide young Victorians with an opportunity to participate in hands-on biodiversity projects or educate them in valuing and actively caring for biodiversity the environment.

The State Government has invested $560 million in protecting biodiversity and the natural environment since 2014. Both grant programs support the implementation of Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037, the Government’s 20-year plan to protect Victoria’s environment and native species.

For more information about how to apply, visit environment.vic.gov.au/grants.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said:

“These grants will help volunteers and youth across Victoria restore and improve habitats for our native plants and animals.”

“These programs encourage young people and volunteers to work together and help protect their local environment.”

“We know Victorians love being out in nature and we are investing to ensure our precious and unique environment can be enjoyed by future generations.”

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is reminding all eligible concession card holders to apply for the 2021/2022 $250 Power Saving Bonus before June 30th.

Eligible concession card holders include those receiving payments through the Pension Concession, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance programs, or who hold a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card.
“I’m encouraging all eligible concessional card holders to apply before the June 30 deadline to receive the bonus and make sure they’re getting the best deal on their energy bill.” Ms Thomas said.
While the quickest way to apply for the $250 Power Saving Bonus will be through the Victorian Energy Compare website at compare.energy.vic.gov.au, Victorians who do not have access to a computer or the internet can call the Victorian Energy Compare helpline on 1800 000 832.
To assist people who are yet to apply, Mary-Anne Thomas’ office will also be holding drop-in sessions at 9 Goode Street on Thursday, 16th and Thursday the 23rd of June for anyone who requires in-person help submitting their application. Just bring along your power bill and concession details.
The 2021/2022 $250 Power Saving Bonus and has provided more than $110 million to more than 850,000 Victorian households in total so far.