The second round of the Andrews Labor Government’s $10 million Community Shade Grant Program is now open for community groups for much needed shade in public areas such as sports clubs, parks and playgrounds.
Minister for Health, Jill Hennessy, today urged eligible community organisations including sports clubs, local councils and not-for-profit community groups to apply.
Under the second round, $1.9 million in grants is now available to construct new shade, purchase portable shade, plant a natural shade, repair an existing shade, or any combination of the four – with $700 per grant able to be used to purchase hats and sunscreen.
The Community Shade Grant Program is complemented by the School Shade Grant Program, which provides grants for shade to Victorian Government schools.
Skin cancer is a largely preventable disease, however with an estimated 40,000 new cases diagnosed each year in Victoria alone, there is more to do.
Melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. In 2014 in Victoria, 279 people died of melanoma with 2,466 new cases diagnosed. In the same year, melanoma was the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Victorians.
Shade alone can reduce overall exposure to UV radiation by up to 75 per cent – strengthened when used in combination with other sun protection strategies such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and protective clothing.
The Labor Government has provided $15 million over four years for skin cancer prevention initiatives, including $10 million for shade development in schools and community settings and $5 million for SunSmart public education campaigns.
The recently released Victorian Cancer Plan 2016 – 2020 aims to reduce preventable cancers, including skin cancer, with a long term target of halving the proportion of Victorians diagnosed by 2040.
Applications for the second round of the Community Shade Grants Program close on 6 October 2016, with grants to be awarded in early 2017. To apply visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“Skin cancer is a major health issue for Australians, yet it’s mostly preventable. That’s why Victorians need to be sun smart.”
“Now that spring has arrived, we’re all looking forward to spending more time outdoors, but it’s important that we take precautions to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation, like staying in the shade.”
“These grants will provide communities with more shaded areas so families can enjoy their time outdoors while being protected from the sun.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020