The Andrews Labor Government is making recreational boating better and more accessible for all Victorians providing $1.5 million in funding to eligible organisations under its latest grants program.

Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne today announced the $1.5 million competitive grants program will fund boating infrastructure projects, search and rescue activities and aids to navigation that improve the recreational boating experience across Victoria.

Organisations that can apply for a Boating Safety and Facilities Program (BSFP) grant include committees of management, government agencies, local water authorities, waterway managers and dedicated Search & Rescue groups.

This year, the BSFP is providing a total of $5 million for boating initiatives. In addition to the $1.5 million available as competitive grants, $3.5 million has been allocated to fund Marine Radio Victoria, strategic boating projects and state-wide boating safety initiatives.

The BSFP grant funding complements around $30 million that will be available to deliver boating related facilities, services, safety and education when the Better Boating Fund commences on 1 July 2021.

Established by the Labor government late last year, the Better Boating Fund will be allocated according to priorities identified in the Victorian Recreational Boating Strategy that is currently being developed.

Over the past 20 years, the Boating Safety and Facilities Program has invested $67.8 million and funded more than 1,400 projects to improve safety and enhance recreational boating facilities across the state.

Applications for the 2020/21 Grants Program open on 2 February and close on 15 March.

For more information or to apply online, go to www.betterboating.vic.gov.au.