Investing in Rural Community Futures Victoria

In 2024 Helen Macpherson Smith Trust partnered with four Victorian philanthropic organisations to support a grassroots program aiming to build the capacity of not-for-profit organisations. Investing in Rural Community Futures Victoria (IRCF) aims to strengthen the capacity and resilience of three Victorian communities over five years.

Building on the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s IRCF program in New South Wales, Helen Macpherson Smith Trust committed $1,500,000 for the Victorian implementation, alongside The Jack Brockhoff Foundation, The Ross Trust, and The William Buckland Foundation.

Since launching in 2024, the IRCF team has undertaken a through and considered selection process to determine the three communities most ready to take up the program opportunity. A range of demographic, environmental, and community sector indicators were considered in order to determine which communities would most benefit from the program. Five shortlisted communities were invited to participate in information sessions, submit expressions of interest, and engage in local workshops.

The IRCF program has entered a pivotal phase in the Victorian communities of Colac, Maryborough and Swan Hill. This marks the beginning of a whole-of-community approach to building capability, one that strengthens the social and economic fabric of these regions and lays the groundwork for long-term impact.Natalie Egleton, FRRR CEO

Colac, Maryborough and Swan Hill emerged as the selected communities. Not-for-profits in these communities now have fresh opportunities to build capacity, foster connections, and team up on initiatives geared towards long-term community strength and vibrancy.

Communities in Colac, Maryborough and Swan Hill have developed initial Community Roadmaps. Co-designed with FRRR, the roadmaps are live documents that will guide and shape actions over the coming years.

The development process provided an opportunity for locally led decision making and direction setting, enabling local people to determine their local priorities.

As the IRCF program develops, its capacity to create sustained impact within local communities grows. The program has proven to significantly enhance community outcomes by strengthening local networks, resources and adaptability.

“Grassroots NFPs are already stepping forward with renewed confidence and shared commitment to collaboration”, Natalie Egleton, FRRR CEO said. “We are seeing new energy and conversations emerge, as organisations place genuine and intentional focus on working strategically together for the greater good of their communities.

“These foundations are critical not only for immediate progress, but for building sustainable systems that will support vibrant, liveable communities well into the future. We’re deeply grateful to our donors and partners for enabling this important work.”

You can learn more about the IRCF Victoria program at frrr.org.au