Social Inclusion Action Group

The Benalla Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) program takes a community-driven approach to foster connection and mental wellbeing. It empowers locals to collectively identify goals and co-create initiatives aimed at enhancing social inclusion, made possible through funding from the Victorian Government Department of Health.

By embracing our community's diversity, we hope to create initiatives will make a positive difference in mental health and wellbeing. We are excited to learn from the experiences of our community and see the positive impact of these locally driven efforts.

To enhance community connections and support mental wellbeing, the Benalla Rural City Council has recently introduced the Social Connection Grants. Launched on 4 December 2023, this initiative marks the first initiative of the SIAG, a primary prevention program recommended by the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System.

The Social Connection Grants initiative is a significant first step in the SIAG program, encouraging local community groups to organise events and activities that promote connection and inclusion.

The grant application period extends until the end of February or until the $15,000 funding pool is exhausted. Local groups are invited to apply for grants of up to $1,000, with applications evaluated on a rolling basis. Successful applicants will have the chance to host events between December and April. Eligibility criteria include creating opportunities for social connection and inclusion or supporting positive mental health outcomes and community resilience.

For more information on the Social Connection Grants and other funding opportunities please visit the Community Grants and Funding page.