The Victorian Government has extended the deadline and expanded the eligibility area for the proposed Indian Community Centre in Melbourne’s west, increasing opportunities for Indian community organisations to apply for funding.
Applications for the Expression of Interest (EOI) process will now close at 3.00 pm on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, giving applicants two additional months to prepare their submissions.
The EOI seeks to identify a lead Indian community organisation with the capacity to develop, build and manage a dedicated Indian community centre in the western suburbs of Melbourne. The selected organisation could receive up to $2.4 million in grant funding to support infrastructure costs.
According to a release from the government, “The EOI is intended to identify a lead Indian community organisation that has suitable capability and wants to develop, build and manage an Indian community-specific community centre to be located in Melbourne’s west.”
As part of the two-stage process, applicants are required to submit a basic project outline and provide evidence of readiness and feasibility. Ownership of the land or property where the proposed centre would be built remains a practical requirement, with the government aiming to fund a project that can begin physical works within a year.
The list of eligible council areas has been expanded. In addition to Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham, the government will now also accept applications from organisations proposing centres in Greater Geelong, Hume, Macedon Ranges, Melbourne, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley and Moorabool.
“The EOI process is open and competitive and one organisation is preferred as the lead organisation. The department will however consider all applications,” the statement said.
The government noted that the EOI process retains a level of flexibility in how the funding may be used, while remaining focused on the goal of establishing a dedicated Indian community centre in the west.
The Department of Premier and Cabinet’s Multicultural Infrastructure and Strategic Projects team is available to assist organisations through the application process. Support is available via email or Teams for those with questions or seeking guidance.
To find out more or begin an application, visit: Indian Community Centre EOI in Melbourne’s west | vic.gov.au | For direct support, email: multicultural.infrastructure@dpc.vic.gov.au
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