VFA Recreational Fishing Grants Program

Purpose and Program Overview

The VFA Recreational Fishing Grants Program is designed to enhance recreational fishing experiences across Victoria. This initiative is funded by revenue generated from Recreational Fishing Licences, which is held in a dedicated Trust Account. The program’s primary function is to fund a variety of projects that have a direct and positive impact on public recreational fishing in Victoria. This grant program is a key supporter of the ongoing health and enjoyment of fishing activities for the community.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range:
  • Small Grants Program: Up to $5,000 (GST exclusive).
  • Intermediate Grants Program: $5,000 to $50,000 (GST exclusive).
  • Extensive Grants Program: $5,001 to $100,000 (GST exclusive).
  • Commissioning Program: Generally over $100,000 for large-scale projects.
• Application open and close dates: The Small Grants Program and Intermediate Grants Program are open for applications at all times. Specific dates for other streams were not provided.
• Eligible industries or business types: Angling clubs, associations, and not-for-profit community groups.
• Required co-contributions: Not explicitly stated as required, but preference may be given to projects with financial co-funding or in-kind contributions.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Victoria, Australia.

Priority Sectors

The grant is specifically targeted at the recreational fishing sector, inspiring projects that directly improve recreational fishing in Victoria.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts per stream:
  • Small Grants: Maximum of $5,000.
  • Intermediate Grants: Between $5,000 and $50,000.
  • Large Grants: Between $5,001 and $100,000.
  • Commissioning Program: Generally exceeds $100,000.
• Categories or streams of funding:
  • Recreational fishing access and facilities.
  • Recreational fisheries sustainability and habitat improvement.
  • Recreational fishing-related education, information, and training.
  • Recreational fisheries research.
  • Fish stocking initiatives.
• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: Not specified for all streams. For the Large Grants Program, the grant provider can stage projects over a maximum of three years.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: Not-for-profit community groups, angling clubs, and associations.
• Registered business location: Organisations undertaking projects in Victoria.
• ABN/GST status: Not explicitly stated, but typically implied for organisations applying for grants.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

The VFA Recreational Fishing Grants Program supports activities that benefit public recreational fishing. Examples include:

• Installation of fishing platforms, solar lighting, fish cleaning tables, directional signage, and access paths.
• Projects promoting responsible fishing practices, improving angling skills, and increasing participation.
• Preparation of educational material (brochures, digital media).
• Fish habitat improvement programs.
• Assessment of recreational fisher catches and use patterns.
• Reasonable project management costs (capped at 10% for infrastructure projects, 15% for events/programs).

Assessment Process

The grant is competitive. Key evaluation criteria considered may include:

• Project merit: The extent to which the project benefits public recreational fishing.
• Strategic alignment: How well the project fits within the program categories and priorities, such as leveraging other projects or providing co-funding.
• Value for money: Proposals requiring purchases may need quotes (one for $2,000-$25,000; three for $25,000-$100,000).

Recent Program Updates

The Small Grants Program and the Intermediate Grants Program are open for applications on a continuous basis, empowering you to apply at your convenience. Specific recent legislative changes or increased funding across all programs were not detailed.

Application Tips

Consider these points for your application:

• Double-check all eligibility criteria for the specific grant stream you are applying for.
• Prepare key documents such as detailed project plans and budget estimates.
• Align your proposal with the program’s objectives to improve recreational fishing in Victoria.
• Demonstrate clear outcomes and benefits for recreational fishers.

Where to Get Help for the VFA Recreational Fishing Grants Program

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist, such as Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant government websites for application templates and further guidance.