The Victorian Government is helping local councils upgrade libraries, improve playgrounds and build better community facilities for growing communities.

Acting Minister for Local Government Mary-Anne Thomas today announced the opening of the $50 million Growing Suburbs Fund and the $10.1 million Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.

Some 16 urban fringe councils can now apply for funding through the Growing Suburbs Fund, which will deliver more playgrounds, parks and community centres in the state’s fastest-growing areas.

Previous projects supported include $4.3 million for the Southern Peninsula Integrated Youth Services Hub and $1.5 million for the Brunt Road Integrated Child and Family Centre in Cardinia Shire.

Since 2015, the Growing Suburbs Fund has delivered more than $325 million towards 256 projects, creating over 8,800 jobs.

All councils and regional library corporations across Victoria are now able to apply for funding to upgrade or deliver a new library.

Under the program, councils can apply for grants of up to $1.5 million to expand and modernise existing libraries, build new libraries or buy new mobile library vans through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.

Earlier this year Glen Eira City Council began work on modernising the popular Bentleigh Library, funded through the program. The library will soon expand to be a community centre and base for the council’s youth services, including counselling and career advice.

Since 2015, the Government has invested more than $32 million into 95 Living Libraries projects, as part of $236.8 million for new libraries, upgrades to existing facilities and library vans.

Public libraries provide a safe and inclusive space for people to gather, learn and connect and have continued to adapt and serve their communities throughout coronavirus restrictions.

For more information, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au.