Swifts Creek, a town in East Gippsland, is set to benefit from a $500,000 grant to further develop its "Swifts Creek Future" Local Development Strategy. This funding will help implement key projects aimed at diversifying the local economy and improving community resilience.
The grant will support four priority areas identified by the community: nature-based recreation and tourism, the creation of an education and skills center, expanding primary industry production, and improving independent living options for aging residents. The funding will be used to employ staff to manage these initiatives, create communications materials, and secure expert advice.
This investment is part of a broader initiative to help towns across Victoria transition their economies, particularly in areas impacted by the cessation of native timber harvesting. The goal is to build sustainable, future-ready communities that thrive through innovation and collaboration.
For more information visit deeca.vic.gov.au/forestry.