Mayor Annette Jones said council would provide not-for-profit groups with money for projects and activities targeted to address the needs of the community.

“There have been some changes made to the grant program and I encourage interested groups to attend the information sessions, which will explain the details of those changes and what is required when applying,” she said.

One of the key changes is the inclusion of a community projects grant category, which is for projects designed to provide benefits to the community, such as community and cultural development, sport and recreation, community health and safety or environmental improvement.

Cr Jones said community organisations should plan ahead and determine what projects and activities they could undertake, given the potential access to money.

“This is an excellent opportunity for groups to put forward some innovative ways to strengthen their communities,” she said.

“I would also recommend to community organisations that they devise ways they could work together with other groups to combine resources and develop creative approaches that respond to community need.”

Round one of the grants will open on Monday.

Applications close August 21 and round two will be available in 2016.

Information sessions will be at Kaniva Council Chambers on July 13 at 7.30pm, Goroke Memorial Hall on July 16 at 7.30pm, Edenhope Council Chambers on July 22 at 7pm, Apsley’s Border Inn on July 27 at 7pm and Harrow’s Hermitage Hotel on July 29 at 7pm.