The Andrews Government is helping local communities to protect their neighbourhoods from illegal graffiti, with applications now open for the Graffiti Prevention Grants program.

Community groups across the Ballarat region can team up with their local council to apply for a grant of up to $30,000 to tackle graffiti vandalism in their neighbourhoods and increase perceptions of public safety.

Labor Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison, said local councils can apply for a grant in partnership with local schools, sporting groups, police, small businesses or other community groups.

Ms Addison said the grants support councils and the community to develop comprehensive graffiti management strategies.

“Ballarat residents take pride in their neighbourhoods and illegal graffiti can have negative impacts on the look and feel of our great city,” Ms Addison said.

“These grants will support community-led projects that prevent graffiti vandalism, beautify spaces and improve perceptions of public safety,” she said.

Local graffiti prevention projects that are eligible include vertical gardens, murals and public art, graffiti removal activities and anti-graffiti education programs that engage young people, local businesses and residents.

The Labor Government has provided nearly $1.8 million in grant funding to 91 Graffiti Prevention Grant projects since 2015, including 19 projects supported in the recent 2018-19 grant round.

Applications for the Graffiti Prevention Grants 2019-20 round close on Friday the 26^th of April.

For further information visit www.crimeprevention.vic.gov.au/graffitigrants .