Regional Development Victoria

Trunk Infrastructure Fund Program Guidelines

1. Fund overview

1.1 Context

In December 2024, the Victorian Government announced the Economic Growth Statement, a plan designed to build on Victoria’s strengths and address the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

The Statement contains many initiatives and identifies five priority industry sectors: advanced manufacturing and defence, health technologies and medical research, circular economy, digital technology, and agribusiness.

Trunk infrastructure is crucial in enabling industrial land development and driving economic growth across these and other strategically important sectors.

Funding trunk infrastructure will help to enable new investment to occur, create new jobs and additional exports, and drive overall economic growth in regional Victoria.

Trunk Infrastructure is defined as the provision of water supply, power supply, sewerage facilities, road networks, technology and utilities to open and expand key industrial/commercial sites and precincts.

1.2 About the Trunk Infrastructure Fund

The Trunk Infrastructure Fund is a key initiative of the Economic Growth Statement and provides $15 million for grants over 3 years, commencing in 2025-26.

The Fund will operate as a contestable grant program. It will support strategic infrastructure projects in regional Victoria by co-investing in essential trunk services to support and activate private sector investment projects, increase the supply of land for use by business and industry and create long-term jobs.

The funding must help to support the proposed development of a private sector investment project that is attracted/secured and able to proceed due to trunk infrastructure being installed, and assist the growth and development of important industry sectors.

Eligible applicants include businesses and local governments seeking to establish or expand sites that stimulate economic growth, with co-contribution/co-investment and partnership funding of infrastructure a key requirement of the program.

Applications are received through a two-stage process consisting of an Expression of Interest stage followed by an invitational application stage.

1.3 Fund objectives

The objectives of the Trunk Infrastructure Fund are to:

  • invest in infrastructure to remove barriers to new investment proceeding
  • attract new private sector investment
  • facilitate the expansion of existing businesses
  • increase the supply of serviced land available for business and industry investment in regional Victoria.

1.4 Fund longer term outcomes

The desired outcomes for the Trunk Infrastructure Fund are:

  • increased economic activity from investment proceeding
  • additional private sector business investment proceeds/attracted
  • increased production, productivity and enhanced local supply chains
  • regional economic growth and prosperity, including new jobs and exports.

2. Available funding

Applicants may apply for grant funding between $500,000 and up to a maximum of $2,000,000 (exclusive of GST). Smaller grant amounts may be considered on a case-by-case basis by exception.

2.1 Partnerships, co-contribution and co-investment

The fund is a co-investment model to activate private sector investment projects. Applicants will need to demonstrate how government funding will be leveraged through applicant co-contribution and through other co-investment partners.

All applicants must meet the minimum cash co-contribution towards the total project budget of eligible activities and expenses.

  • Applications for projects in the 38 rural council areas and alpine resorts will be required to contribute one third (33%) as a cash-co-contribution towards the total project budget (2:1 ratio). To receive the minimum grant of $500,000 a total project cost would need to be $750,000.
  • Applications for projects in the 10 regional city council areas will be required to contribute half (50%) as a cash co-contribution towards the total project budget (1:1 ratio). To receive the minimum grant of $500,000 a total project cost would need to be $1 million.

The co-contribution may come from the applicant organisation or from other funding sources including sector or industry partners. In-kind (non-cash) contributions are not eligible.

An applicant’s co-contribution may include funding from other Victorian Government programs, however, ideally the majority of co-contributions to meet the required funding ratio should be derived from non-Victorian Government sources. In determining the RDV funding level, the total Victorian Government contribution may be taken into consideration.

Applicants must provide evidence that demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the department, that the applicant has sufficient funds available for the stated co-contribution. See Section 10 for evidence requirements.

3. Applicant eligibility

The fund is open to regional local government authorities and private and public sector entities where the project occurs on a site/s in regional Victoria. See section 3.2 for a list of eligible organisations.

Regional Victoria is defined under the Regional Development Victoria (RDV) Act as comprising the 48 Local Government Authorities outside of metropolitan Melbourne, plus alpine resorts as set out in Schedule 2 of the RDV Act.

The Local Government Authorities include 10 regional cities and 38 rural municipalities. and alpine resorts. For the full list of the eligible Local Government Authorities and alpine resorts see Appendix A.

Applications can be submitted by a consortium of multiple businesses and/or developers and must have an eligible lead organisation as the applicant. Applications submitted by consortia should disclose all partners/collaborators and their contributions and clearly identify the targeted industry sector for the investment that is to occur on the site being developed.

Applications involving multiple investors will be prioritised.

3.1 Eligible applicants

Applicants must meet all the following criteria:

  • hold a current and valid Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST)
  • be an eligible legal entity type as at Section 3.2.

3.2 Eligible entity types

Applicants must be one of the following legal entity types1:

  • private sector organisations incorporated and registered with one of the following bodies:
    • Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
    • Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) or
    • Office of the Register of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC).
  • Victorian local government authorities located within 48 municipalities in regional Victoria as set out in Appendix A.
  • incorporated joint venture
  • public/private partnerships, through an incorporated entity
  • Victorian Alpine Resorts as set out in Appendix A
  • a co-operative registered under the Co-operatives National Law
  • an indigenous organisation incorporated under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006
  • other organisations agreed by RDV at its discretion.

1 Applicant entities must be registered with appropriate regulator/s, which may include but are not limited to: Australian Securities and Investment Commission, Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commissioner, Consumer Affairs Victoria and/or other applicable regulators.

3.3 Ineligible applicants

The following entities are not eligible to apply:

  • an unincorporated association
  • an entity not registered for GST
  • State and Australian Government departments and agencies
  • an individual
  • a sole trader
  • TAFE institutions and universities
  • pre‑school, primary and secondary schools
  • hospitals or health care providers.

4. What will be funded

The Fund will support trunk infrastructure projects that attract strategic investment into regional Victoria and/or assist the development of strategically important industry sectors. Projects will assist to develop key industrial and commercial sites such as:

  • Industrial Estates/Employment Precincts: the provision of trunk infrastructure that will support the creation, expansion and activation of local industrial and employment precincts to address industrial land shortages, create jobs, and stimulate local economies
  • Business Establishment or Expansions: the provision of trunk infrastructure to sites that enable individual business or a cluster of businesses to establish or expand that will create jobs and stimulate the local economies.

Projects sites could include:

  • greenfield – building undeveloped land
  • brownfield – land or sites that have been previously used for industrial or commercial purposes and are now vacant and/or underutilised
  • existing sites that require expansion and upgrade.

5. Project eligibility

5.1 Eligible projects include

  • infrastructure projects on sites located in the eligible regional Victorian local government areas or alpine resorts
  • projects that will provide trunk infrastructure in alignment with Section 5.3 Eligible activities and expenses; and
  • must meet the minimum cash co-contributions as set out in Section 2.1 Partnerships, co-contribution and co-investment.

5.2 Project characteristics

In determining the suitability of projects, the Fund will look to support projects that:

  • align with Trunk Infrastructure Fund objectives and outcomes
  • increase the supply of investment ready industrial land
  • respond to and address opportunities and challenges relevant to an identified region or place
  • can demonstrate a strong evidence base indicating the demand and need for the infrastructure and its expected economic benefits at local, regional, and industry sector levels
  • can demonstrate that it will directly attract investment to activate the site and that investment proposed to proceed on the site is well planned and viable
  • can demonstrate that relevant consultation has or will be undertaken with:
    • local governments on the proposed use and development of the site (for private sector applicants only)
    • infrastructure and or service providers
  • can demonstrate that major barriers to installing trunk infrastructure at the site have been resolved, and the land is appropriately zoned and ready to be built on
  • outline that the relevant approvals, permits and permissions to install the infrastructure are known and either obtained or in the process of being obtained
  • align with current and relevant government economic and placed-based plans and strategies (where appropriate).

5.3 Eligible activities and expenses

The grant and co-contribution must be spent on eligible infrastructure activities and expenditure as listed below:

  • water supply, storm water and sewerage (e.g. reservoirs, pipes and sewage treatment plants, water quality treatment devices)
  • electricity connection and power upgrades or expansion
  • communications connectivity – telecommunications, NBN
  • road and transport networks
  • contractor expenses related to installation and commissioning of trunk infrastructure
  • costs associated with planning and design activities (up to 20% of project budget) – consultant fees and professional services, development and implementation of shared funding models required for the delivery of the project.

Note: The department will make the final decision on what is an eligible activity or expenditure in alignment with program objectives.

5.4 Ineligible activities and expenses

The following activities will generally not be considered for funding:

  • the purchase of land OR in-kind contribution of land
  • strategic planning activities or services, such as planning scheme amendments, growth area plans, precinct structure plans, feasibility or demand studies or business cases to investigate the technical and or economic viability of a project
  • projects that require land to be rezoned for the proposed project and other project planning activities that exceed 20% of the total project budget
  • expenditure related to plant, equipment or machinery (e.g., specialised machinery for installing infrastructure)
  • requests for retrospective funding where trunk infrastructure has commenced (i.e. construction has begun), or those projects which are completed prior to receiving funding approval
  • projects requiring ongoing funding from the Victorian Government
  • ongoing operating costs or salaries or salary subsidies
  • private sector projects undertaken because of a government contract
  • projects where funding is normally provided by other state, commonwealth or local government sources.

6. How to apply

Potential applicants must carefully read these application guidelines and the Trunk Infrastructure Fund web page to determine eligibility.

Applications to the fund are via a two-stage application process:

Stage 1 –Expression of Interest (EOI)

Initial step for all applicants. This stage is designed to test the suitability and appropriateness of a project against the fund’s eligibility criteria, objectives and outcomes.

The following is an overview of Stage 1 process:

  • Contact RDV to discuss the proposed project, and express an interest in applying either by:
  • Submit an EOI form via the departments grants portal (portal link will be provided by RDV regional representative).

Stage 2 Detailed application

Successful EOI applicants will be invited to submit a Detailed Application for funding.

The following is an overview of Stage 2 of the application process:

  • EOI applicants will be notified of the outcome of submission by your RDV representative
  • Successful EOI applicants will be invited to submit a Detailed Application via the departments grants portal (a further link will be provided by your RDV representative).

Note: An invitation to submit a Detailed Application does not guarantee that funding will be approved.

All applications (including the EOI):

  • should clearly and succinctly describe the activity and proposed project and address the assessment criteria set out in sections 8.3 and 8.4

Detailed applications (Stage 2):

  • must provide the supporting documents as detailed in Section 10 ‘Documentation and Information Requirements’.

Potential applicants are encouraged to carefully consider their ability to meet the program requirements and how they will perform against the assessment criteria before committing significant resources to developing an application.

7. Key dates

The fund opens for expressions of interest on 13 February 2026. The EOI will remain open until the program funds are allocated and/or the department closes the EOI stage.

EOIs will be assessed as received and successful EOIs will be invited to provide further information through a Detailed Application.

Applicants invited to submit a Detailed Application must do so within 4 weeks and will be notified of the date that this is due to be submitted to the department.

Upon lodgement of a Detailed Application, the department will provide applicants with an estimated timeframe for when they can expect to know the outcome of their application.

Projects are to be completed within two years from funding approval.

7.1 Project duration

Projects funded through the Fund are expected to commence within 2 months from execution of a grant agreement and completed within two years.

Applicants will be required to supply project specific dates that fit within the above timeframes, as part of their application.  Applicants will also be required to provide proposed key deliverables or project milestones.

8. Application and assessment

8.1 Assessment process

In line with the multistage application process, EOIs and Detailed Applications will be assessed against the Fund’s merit assessment criteria:

  • EOIs will be reviewed against the assessment criteria in Section 8.3
  • Detailed Applications that are made following an invitation to apply will be assessed against the assessment criteria in Section 8.4.

Applications will be assessed in the following manner:

  • eligibility and due diligence checks, including financial risk assessments where required
  • merit criteria assessment undertaken by a departmental assessment panel/s
  • advice may also be sought from other relevant Victorian Government departments and agencies
  • an oversight panel committee, chaired by RDV, will provide advice regarding eligible projects for funding to the Minister for Regional Development (consideration may also be given to the geographic spread of projects).
  • the Minister for Regional Development makes the final decision to approve funding to eligible applications.

To enable the consideration of strategic and time sensitive projects, government may consider projects that align with the objectives and outcomes of the program to be approved outside of the prescribed EOI, application and assessment process on a limited case-by-case basis.

8.2 Assessment criteria

Submissions will be assessed on how well they meet the assessment criteria outlined below. Applicants will be asked to respond to certain criteria and their weightings.

Applications should address each criterion and demonstrate a case for funding. Any underlying risks and assumptions should be clearly stated.

8.3 Expression of Interest criteria

EOI Criteria

What will be taken into consideration as part of the EOI assessment

Weighting

Site Investment Opportunity

  • What is the investment opportunity that the trunk infrastructure will activate,   including capital investment and jobs that will be created to operate the proposed facility?
  • Who are the mix of partners and/or investors who will provide co-contribution/co-investment?
  • What is the timeframe for the investment to proceed?
  • What is the timeframe for the installation of the required trunk infrastructure to activate the investment?
  • Will the investment have the potential for future expansion or may result in other businesses locating in the same area that could benefit from the trunk infrastructure provided?

40%

Trunk infrastructure need

  • What is the trunk infrastructure required to activate the site investment   opportunity and what is the estimated cost?
  • Describe how the infrastructure will anchor the proposed business investment and enable the development and use of the site.
  • How will trunk infrastructure address a current challenge, gap or issue that would not be resolved without government support to encourage business   investment to the site.

30%

Site suitability

  • The site is appropriate for development as land that can be used by businesses   to create employment.
  • The site can be made investment ready with trunk infrastructure funding.
  • Trunk Infrastructure will help build on the quality of existing assets that make the site appealing for investors (quality of existing assets, close to roads, industry clusters).
  • There is a clear pathway to procure the proposed trunk infrastructure   improvement and develop the site.

20%

Regional economic benefits

How the development of the site, and the investment that it enables:

  • capitalises on the economic strengths and competitive advantage of an area (e.g. industries)
  • has the potential to unlock further economic activity for the local   community/region
  • aligns with the relevant local, regional and or state strategic plan priorities for   government.

10%

Applicant eligibility

Applicant organisations must:

  • hold an Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST)
  • be an eligible entity type (as listed at Section 3.2)
  • be financially viable and have the capability to manage and complete the project

Mandatory

Project eligibility

The project is an eligible activity and expense as per Section 5.3

Mandatory

Location eligibility

The project is located in one of the eligible local government authorities or alpine resorts.

Mandatory

High level budget

Provide a high-level budget to clearly detail all proposed expenditure items, including the amount requested and all financial contributions to the project including any partners in the development of the trunk infrastructure or the subsequent business investment/site investment opportunity.

Mandatory

8.4 Detailed application criteria

When preparing a detailed application, applicants should demonstrate how a proposal aligns with the Objectives and Outcomes of the fund (Section 1 (1.3 & 1.4)). The assessments of applications will also include assessment of supporting evidence.

Detailed Application Criteria

What applicants should include in their response

What will be taken into consideration as part of the assessment

Weighting

Project outcomes

  • Provide details of the expected outcomes following Trunk   Infrastructure investment – what investment opportunity will be realised on the site.
  • Where possible, support with expected or estimated jobs to be created, capital expenditure/project expenditure.
  • What is the intended end use for the site?
  • Describe long-term outcomes compared to short-term outcomes.
  • Will the site be sustainable over time.
  • The outcomes and funding request make sense for the scale of   the project.
  • Utilisation of the site, allowing the business/s to create economic benefits e.g. business expansion, jobs, business level supply chain improvements etc.
  • The facility, property or asset developed and ability for growth once established.
  • Additional economic development opportunities.

30%

Regional benefits

  • How does the location of the project capitalise on regional strengths?
  • What broader economic opportunities can the project unlock for the local community/region?
  • What is the evidence of demand for the facility/property/asset?
  • Extent to which end use is aligned with local demand and will unlock additional economic development opportunities. Examples include contributing   to or establishing a precinct, industry hub, or accommodating an anchor tenant that has the ability to grow.
  • Allow for scalable infrastructure investments suited to small towns   and dispersed communities and enable flexibility in project type serviced.

30%

Project feasibility and readiness

Demonstrate:

  • timeline for site/ infrastructure utilisation
  • legal, land tenure, planning and environmental issues have been identified and resolved, or satisfactory resolution strategies are in place
  • project risks have been identified, and strategies are in place to   manage them.
  • the development model will support sustainable development practices.
  • Describe and provide evidence of how the infrastructure maximises value through leveraging partnerships (e.g. local government, community,   private sector and/or regional organisations).
  • Full details of the trunk infrastructure request are provided: provider details, any issues with provision, timeframes, readiness.

20%

Project delivery

Provide an overview of the proposed project delivery arrangements, including:

  • project deliverables and milestones identified
  • budget and timeline
  • track record of project team
  • identification of delivery partners and suppliers
  • engagement approach for stakeholder groups detail of risk mitigation and project governance e.g. approval and decision-making processes.  (i.e. Boards, Committees as appropriate).
  • Feasibility of budget, project deliverables and milestones within designated timeframe.
  • Capability and capacity of the applicant to deliver the   project.
  • Track record of delivering similar projects on time (if applicable)   and the resources, including skills and intellectual property to be allocated to the project.
  • Appropriateness of delivery partner/s and supplier/s.
  • Value of the multi-partner co-contribution/co-investment.
  • Appropriateness of stakeholders engaged and proposed strategy.
  • Appropriateness of project oversight arrangements.
  • Risk mitigation plan.

20%

Total

  

100%

9. Due diligence checks

Applicants may be subject to due diligence checks to enable the department to assess financial and other non-financial risks associated with the application.  Such checks may include:

  • the potential for reputational risk to the State
  • the risk profile, financial viability and management capacity of the applicant over the duration of the proposed activity
  • whether the proposal has received funding through other means
  • the delivery performance of other grants contracted with the Victorian Government and whether the applicant has failed to meet key contractual obligations.

Outcomes from such assessments may be considered in any decision to recommend or award a grant and in contracting with successful applicants.

The department may, at any time, remove an applicant from the application and assessment process, if in the department’s opinion, association with the applicant may bring the department, a minister or the State of Victoria into disrepute.

10. Documentation and evidence requirements

The Expression of Interest stage (Stage 1) does not require applicants to provide additional documentation or attachments.

For the Detailed Application stage, applicants must supply supporting documents specific to the project as part of their application as per Table 1.

Information provided should be concise, relevant and directly support the proposal.

Supporting material provided through links to non-public websites or platforms where materials can be edited after submission will not be assessed (e.g. documents linked to DropBox or Google Drive).

There may be size restrictions on what can be attached to the application.

If required, the department may contact the applicant to obtain further information.

Table 1 – Documentation and Evidence Requirements – Detailed application stage only

Document Type

Documentation

Requirement

Project Implementation Plan

The Project implementation Plan is expected to contain:

  • a project description
  • a timeline for the project that includes key milestones for delivery and operation
  • details of internal resources allocated to the project
  • the role of any project partners
  • project risks and mitigation strategies
  • a project budget.

Mandatory

Evidence of main budget and costs

  • An itemised and detailed budget breakdown for the project
  • Current Quotations from suppliers detailing costs, or a more detailed Scope of Services from a third-party service provider

Mandatory

Evidence of co-contribution funds

Applicants must provide evidence that demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the department, that the applicant has sufficient funds available for the required co-contribution amount for the project. This may include evidence such as:

  • an approved loan facility (including loan amount)
  • a bank statement showing sufficient cash in the applicant’s bank account for the co‑contribution
  • management accounts demonstrating satisfactory cash flow or liquid assets
  • written confirmation from another organisation confirming its contribution towards the project
  • written confirmation from the board, business owner or authorised representative that the business can undertake the project and meet the required co-contribution amount.

Mandatory

Letters of intent and/or support

  • Evidence of support for the project through collaboration and partnership arrangements.
  • Other evidence or letters of support for the project were relevant, for example from relevant community or stakeholder organisations, regional bodies, local councils, local businesses or associations and Traditional Owner organisations.

Mandatory

Approvals and permits

Land Ownership

  • evidence of land ownership or tenure, or written consent from the relevant authority or landowner if the applicant organisation does not own the land or facility for the project.

Planning Permits

  • evidence that a planning permit application has or is in the process of being submitted/obtained from the relevant authority which will enable the project to be completed within two years of an executed grant agreement.

Other Permits or Permissions

The status of other permissions, permits, consents, licences, certificates and approvals that may be required for the project and the anticipated timeframes for obtaining these:

  • evidence that the process for all other necessary permits and permissions for the project’s construction and use have either been obtained (permits issued) or evidence that processes are underway.
  • these may include, but is not limited to, Heritage Victoria Permit, Cultural Heritage Management Plan/s, Vegetation Assessments, Environmental Management Plans, and Building Permits.

If such plans are not required, evidence should be provided to support this.

Mandatory

Financial Information

* Not required for Local Government Authorities, Alpine Resort Management Boards, State Government Departments and statutory agencies, publicly funded universities and educational institutions

All applicants* must provide evidence which demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the department, that the applicant is financially viable and enables the department to undertake a financial risk assessment.

Note: If the applicant is a special purpose vehicle (i.e. a separate legal entity created to manage projects), the applicant must provide parent company financial statements, ownership structure details and other particulars. The parent company needs to be an organisation which has been established for a minimum of 3 years and can financially secure the grant applicant.

All applicants* will need to provide the following:

  • a written summary of the organisation/a background on the business
  • audited or accountant-prepared financial reports for the last 3 financial years. These should be the ‘final accounts’ with directors’ report and declaration as well as:
    • profit and loss statement
    • balance sheet
    • cash flow statement
    • notes to the accounts (if applicable)

Note:

If the applicant’s financial reports are not audited, unaudited financial reports can only be accepted if they have been prepared by an accountant registered on the Tax Practitioner Board

We do not accept comparative figures within another Final Report:

  • where the audited or accountant prepared financials for the most recent reporting period is more than 6 months, the following are required:
    • profit and loss statement and balance sheet
    • in case of public listed corporations, half‑yearly financial report
  • parent company financial statements (if applicable)
  • ownership structure (corporate tree)
  • current business plan or project proposal
  • evidence of funding gap – either via a bank statement(s) showing evidence of cash in the account or evidence of bank lending approval
  • accountant prepared or verified financial projections for the next 3 financial years, including:
    • profit and loss statement
    • cash flow.

* Not required for Local Government Authorities, Alpine Resort Management Boards, State Government Departments and statutory agencies, publicly funded universities and educational institutions

Mandatory (if applicable)

11. Notification of outcomes

Applicants will be advised via email of the outcome of their Expression of Interest and, where relevant, the Detailed Application.

12. Conditions of funding

12.1 Funding offer

Applicants will be advised in writing if they are successful and if they are required to accept the funding offer in writing.

An offer of funding is not binding on the department unless and until both the department and the applicant execute the grant agreement.

The department requires that any offer remain confidential until after an agreement has been executed and the funding formally announced.

Projects must not commence until a grant agreement has been executed by all parties.

12.2 Grant agreements

Successful applicants will be invited to enter into a legally binding grant agreement with the State of Victoria (State) as represented by the department.

The applicant will be required to sign the grant agreement within one month of the notice of offer. The funding offer may lapse or be withdrawn if the grant agreement is not signed by the applicant within this timeframe. The department is the final signatory to the grant agreement.

The project, and any expenditure of funds associated with the project, must not commence until the grant agreement has been executed. Agreement execution means the grant agreement has been signed by both the department and the applicant.

The grant agreement details all funding obligations and conditions such as:

  • the commencement date
  • the project and project outcomes
  • payments/payment milestones
  • funding use
  • grant activity/milestone deliverables and due dates
  • reporting on project activity, spend and project outcomes
  • accounting and audit
  • publicity and acknowledgement
  • refund events
  • termination rights
  • compliance with policies and laws (as applicable).

12.3 Grant payments

Payments will be made in instalments in accordance with the executed grant agreement. Payments will be made against the proposed project timelines and on achievement of project milestones set out in the grant agreement.

12.4 Eftsure bank account verification

Prior to grant payments being issued, the department will use Eftsure software for verification of bank details. Eftsure is an Australian digital software company that deliver real time payment verification assurance to payment issuers.  It is used to help reduce payment fraud and errors by ensuring electronic funds transfers go to the right payees.

For more information on Eftsure and how they securely verify bank details, please visit the Eftsure website.

Successful applicants will be provided further information on how this process works and what is required of them.

12.5 Refund events

The department has the right to a refund of the whole or part of the Grant amount paid in certain circumstances which are set out in the terms and conditions of the grant agreement.  This includes failure to complete the project in the manner agreed to in the grant agreement or where there is conduct which may bring the department, minister or State into disrepute.

12.6 Publicity/acknowledgement of support

Grant recipients must co-operate with the department in relation to all publicity and promotion of the grant.

The department may require grant recipients to acknowledge the Victorian Government's support on all promotional materials and appropriate signage, which must be consistent with the Guidelines for Victorian Government Advertising and Communications (available on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website) or as otherwise specified by the department.

The department may publicise the benefits accruing to a grant recipient associated with the grant and the State's support for the project. The department may include the name of the grant recipient, and the amount of funding granted in any publicity material and in the department’s annual report.

12.7 Program evaluation

Grant recipients may be required to provide additional information to the department in relation to the evaluation of the program or participate in program evaluation activities for a nominated period after program completion.

Program evaluation is critical to the department in understanding program impact, supporting continuous improvement in program design and delivery, and delivering effective grant program outcomes for Victoria.

13. Privacy statement

Any personal information provided for this program will be collected and used by the department for the purposes of assessing eligibility, program administration, program review and evaluation.

The department completes a range of eligibility assessments that may include data matching to clarify the accuracy and quality of information supplied. This is part of an auditing and monitoring processes and for confirming eligibility.

In assessing an application for the program as well as in any audit or evaluation of a successful grant, it may be necessary to share personal information with State and Commonwealth Government departments and agencies, as well as other external experts. If personal information about a third party is included in the application, the applicant must ensure the third party is aware of and consents to the contents of this privacy statement.

The department collects demographic information for economic reporting purposes. No personal information is used in reporting; all reports are presented with aggregated data.

Any personal information about the applicant or a third party will be collected, held, managed, used, disclosed, or transferred in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and other applicable laws.

Enquiries about access or correction to your personal information, can be emailed to regional.programs@rdv.vic.gov.au

Other concerns regarding the privacy of personal information, can be emailed to the department’s Privacy Unit at privacy@ecodev.vic.gov.au

The department’s privacy policy is also available by emailing this address.

14. Department probity and decision-making

The Victorian Government makes every effort to ensure the grant application and assessment process is fair and undertaken in line with the published program guidelines.

Decisions in recommending and awarding grant funding under this program are at the Minister’s and department’s discretion. This includes not making any funding available or approving a lesser amount than that applied for.

These guidelines and application terms may be changed from time to time, within the discretion of the department and the changes will apply to your application.

The department may request the applicant provide further information should it be necessary as part of the assessment process.

Victorian Government staff are required to act in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Victorian Public Sector Employees (Section 61) issued under the Public Administration Act 2004 (Vic). This includes an obligation to avoid conflicts of interest wherever possible and declare and manage any conflicts of interest that cannot be avoided.

14.1 Applicant conflict of interest

A conflict of interest arises where a person makes a decision or exercises a power in a way that may be, or may be perceived to be, influenced by either material personal interests (financial or non-financial) or material personal associations. A conflict of interest may arise where a grant applicant:

  • has a professional, commercial, or personal relationship with a party who is able to, or may be perceived to, influence the application assessment process, such as a Victorian Government staff member, or
  • has a relationship with, or interest in, an organisation which is likely to interfere with or restrict the applicant from carrying out the proposed activities fairly and independently.

Applicants must advise the department of any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest relating to a project for which it has applied for funding.

14.2 Feedback to unsuccessful applicants

Applicants may request feedback on their unsuccessful application or Expression of Interest by directing their request in writing to RDV at regional.programs@rdv.vic.gov.au

14.3 Complaints

If an applicant wants to lodge a complaint or provide feedback to the department about the process for a grant application, requests can be made via the department's online complaints form, by sending a written request to regional.programs@rdv.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 878 969.

Requests can be made in relation to the application process and adherence to these guidelines. Re-assessment of an application or overturning of a funding decision for a merit-based grant, will not be considered through the complaints process.

Your complaint will be resolved within 28 business days unless further investigation is required. If further investigation is required, you may be contacted by phone or email asking for additional information.

15. Payment of GST on grant funding

Applicants should note that all project costs included in the application must be exclusive of Goods and Services Tax (GST). Applicants must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST or provide written advice from the Australian Taxation Office that no withholding tax is required to be withheld from the grant payment.

If you are registered for the GST, where applicable, we will add GST to your grant payment.

16. Legislation and policy obligations

Local Jobs First

Local Jobs First (LJF) is a procurement policy that ensures that small and medium size enterprises are given a full and fair opportunity to compete for government contracts, helping to create job opportunities.

LJF applies where the value of a grant is $1 million and above in regional Victoria or $3 million and above in metropolitan Melbourne or for statewide projects.

If your project is helping create employment opportunities – including for apprentices, trainees and cadets – you may need to comply with LJF.

Per the LJF Policy and Local Jobs First Act 2003 this Program is subject to LJF. Therefore, program applicants should engage with the Industry Capability Network (ICN) when applying and consider submission of a LJF Plan with their application.

Further information can be found on the Local Jobs First website.

In addition, successful grant recipients must also hold appropriate insurance for the project, for example public liability insurance.

17. Record keeping for recipients / Accounting and audit

Grant Recipients must keep proper accounts as required by law and in accordance with the terms and conditions of the grant agreement.

Recipients may be subject to audit and will be required to retain records following completion of the project and provide access and produce evidence (such as business activity statements, bank statements, financial reports, sales reports and invoices, payroll reports to demonstrate impact and turnover) and assist the department, its representatives, and the Auditor General of Victoria with the conduct of the audit, as required.

18. Further information

Further information regarding this program can be found on the Trunk Infrastructure Fund webpage.

If you have any questions about the Fund or the application process, please contact your local RDV office below or at see our contacts and assistance page.

Note: Some offices may be operating different opening hours. The preferred method of contact is via telephone or email.

Location

Street address

Phone

Email

Ballarat

300–304 Mair Street
Ballarat VIC 3350

1800 878 981

information.ballarat@rdv.vic.gov.au

Bendigo

Level 2, Galkangu
189–229 Lyttleton Tce

Bendigo VIC 3550

1800 950 146

information.loddonmallee@rdv.vic.gov.au

Geelong

Federal Mills

33 Mackey Street

North Geelong VIC 3215

1800 950 145

information.geelong@rdv.vic.gov.au

Horsham

21 McLachlan Street

Horsham VIC 3400

1800 878 981

information.horsham@rdv.vic.gov.au

Mildura

Cnr. Koorlong Ave and 11th Street
308-390 Koorlong Ave
Irymple VIC 3498

1800 950 146

information.loddonmallee@rdv.vic.gov.au

Morwell

Latrobe Valley GovHub
65 Church Street
Morwell VIC 3840

1800 325 217

information.gippsland@rdv.vic.gov.au

Portland

13A Richmond Street

Portland VIC 3305

03 9623 1300

information.portland@rdv.vic.gov.au

Shepparton

409–415 Wyndham Street

Shepparton VIC 3630

1800 878 963

information.hume@rdv.vic.gov.au

Wangaratta

Wangaratta Government Centre

1st Floor 62 Ovens Street

Wangaratta VIC 3677

1800 878 963

information.hume@rdv.vic.gov.au

Warrnambool

703–709 Raglan Parade

Warrnambool VIC 3280

1800 950 145

information.warrnambool@rdv.vic.gov.au

Wodonga

111–113 Hume Street

Wodonga VIC 3690

1800 878 963

information.hume@rdv.vic.gov.au

19. Glossary

  • Applicant means an organisation that has submitted the Expression of Interest or the Detailed Application for funding for a Grant.
  • Application means the application submitted by the Detailed Applicant to the department for funding after being invited to apply following a successful Expression of Interest.
  • Co-contribution means the cash contribution the applicant is required to make against the total project cost.
  • Co-investment means a partner invests in the opportunity presented by the project.
  • Expression of Interest means the expression of interest form submitted by the Applicant to the department.
  • Program means Trunk Infrastructure Fund.
  • Project means the activities specified in the Application by the Applicant for which the grant is provided.
  • Project Site or location means the site address where trunk infrastructure will be installed.
  • Grant means funding provided by the department to organisations or individuals for a specified purpose to meet government policy objectives.
  • Grant Agreement means a legally binding document that details the terms and conditions of the Grant and sets out the relationship between the parties.
  • Grant Recipient means the legal entity that has entered into a Grant Agreement with the department.
  • Investment Project means where a business or organisation commences use of the project site and the installed trunk infrastructure.
  • State or department means the State of Victoria through its Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions.

Appendix A

Projects delivered within the local government areas locations listed below can apply for Trunk funding, in accordance with relevant program eligibility criteria.

Regional cities

  • Ballarat
  • Greater Bendigo
  • Greater Geelong
  • Greater Shepparton
  • Horsham
  • Latrobe
  • Mildura
  • Wangaratta
  • Warrnambool
  • Wodonga.

Rural councils

  • Alpine
  • Ararat
  • Bass Coast
  • Baw Baw
  • Benalla
  • Buloke
  • Campaspe
  • Central Goldfields
  • Colac-Otway
  • Corangamite
  • East Gippsland
  • Falls Creek
  • Gannawarra
  • Glenelg
  • Golden Plains
  • Hepburn
  • Hindmarsh
  • Indigo
  • Loddon
  • Macedon Ranges
  • Mansfield
  • Mitchell
  • Moira
  • Moorabool
  • Mount Alexander
  • Moyne
  • Murrindindi
  • Northern Grampians
  • Pyrenees
  • Queenscliffe
  • South Gippsland
  • Southern Grampians
  • Strathbogie
  • Surf Coast
  • Swan Hill
  • Towong
  • Wellington
  • West Wimmera
  • Yarriambiack

Alpine Resorts

  • Falls Creek
  • Lake Mountain
  • Mt Baw Baw
  • Mt Buller
  • Mt Hotham
  • Mt Stirling.