General News
7 October, 2025
Libraries set to receive funds
Five local government areas in the Wimmera have been successful in the latest round of the State Government's Public Libraries Funding Program, which aims to promote education and innovation among young Victorians.
Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos announced that $48.1 million will be distributed among recipients.
Horsham Rural City Council is set to receive $199,501, Hindmarsh Shire Council $123,618, Yarriambiack Shire Council $126,227, West Wimmera Shire Council $111,116 and Northern Grampians Shire Council $153,198.
The program was established to provide annual funding for councils, regional library corporations, Connected Libraries Ltd, My Community Library Ltd, Your Library Ltd, and Vision Australia, supporting a range of essential community activities and services delivered daily across 293 branches statewide.
“Our libraries offer so much more than books – they foster lifelong learning and contribute to the connections that strengthen and enrich Victorian communities," Mr Staikos said.
The Minister declared that libraries were longer just places for borrowing books: they are places where the community can access e-resources, Wi-Fi, computers, meeting rooms, art spaces, and diverse programs for children, youth, and adults.
“We are supporting our terrific community libraries and the endless access to knowledge, social connection and entertainment they offer all Victorians," Mr Staikos said.
Since 2015, the government has invested more than $498.5 million through the Public Libraries Funding Program.
For more information on the program, visit the Public Libraries Funding Program.