Applications are now open for the 2024 Community Heritage Grants (CHG) program. The CHG program offers cash grants of up to $20,000 to community organisations. The grants support organisations to preserve and manage collections that have Australian cultural and historical significance.
The CHG program is celebrating 30 years this year. Since it was first run in 1994, the CHG program has provided over $8.9 million in funding to over 900 organisations for more than 1,650 projects nationally.
‘Over the course of 3 decades, CHG has become a constant and trusted source of support in the heritage sector. It is pleasing that the original purpose of the program in 1994 – to assist groups across Australia who are responsible for nationally significant collections – remains at its heart. CHG is still looking out for volunteer-run historical societies and museums, groups that have become custodians of unique heritage material, and Indigenous and multicultural groups to ensure that these collections can remain within their communities and region,’ said Fiona Clarke, Assistant Director, Collaboration Branch.
Last year, $459,987 was shared between 59 regional and community groups, including Adaminaby Snowy Scheme Collection, Cherbourg Ration Shed Collection, Ethnic Community Broadcasting Association of Victoria, Flying Boat Museum (Lake Boga) and Callaway Centre (Perth) and many others.
Historical societies, regional museums, archives and galleries are invited to apply, including Indigenous and multicultural organisations. The grants enable groups to work with consultants to undertake significance assessments and preservation needs assessments and based on these reports, deliver preservation and conservation, collection management, and digitisation activities. Funding is also available for training workshops.
‘CHG offers many benefits for small groups that are seeking professional support and to build their own collection skills and knowledge. We encourage applicants to read the guidelines and visit the website to see examples of past CHG projects. And if you have queries, the CHG team are available to provide further advice,’ Ms Clarke said.
New applications close midnight (AEST) on Thursday 9 May 2024. Previous CHG program recipients and proposals for training projects have an extended deadline, with applications closing on Tuesday 4 June 2024.
