Queensland’s volunteering organisations share in $3.9 million
Over 1,300 community organisations in Queensland will benefit from about $3.89 million in Australian Government funding for volunteer grants.
This is part of the $21 million in Volunteer Grants that will go to over 7,200 community organisations across the country.
Under the program, grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are provided to non-profit organisations.
Volunteers are the backbone of so many of our community groups and the non-profit sector. In Queensland, there are more than 1.1 million volunteers.
Every day volunteers are out in their local communities working tirelessly to help the elderly, the sick and those who have hit hard times.
The Government values the enormous contribution volunteers make in our community and this funding will ease the financial pressure on non-profit organisations and volunteers.
In Queensland, the Volunteer Grants Program 2008 will assist organisations to buy equipment and sporting items, to train volunteers, and to help with fuel costs.
Organisations to receive funding include the Isolated Children’s Parents Association of Queensland (ICPAQ), Girl Guides Queensland and Surf Life Saving Queensland.
The 48 branches of the ICPAQ will receive funding of $113,500 to help over 300 volunteers and allow them to continue their important community work.
The volunteer organisation assists students in isolated geographical locations gain access to appropriate schooling and specialised services, which cater to the needs of individual children.
Girl Guides Queensland enables girls and young women to grow into confident, self-respecting, responsible community members.
Trained volunteers conduct the weekly Girl Guide program as well as the competency based volunteer training, outdoor camping and other fitness pursuits.
Funding of $150,349 will assist around 2,408 Girl Guide community volunteers across the state.
With funding of $219,950 Surf Life Saving Queensland with continue to train and support its 7808 volunteers.
Last year, more than 3,200 rescues were performed in Queensland. Community education plays a vital role in keeping beach users safe, beach patrol and management. Training and education is a core component in developing skilled volunteer life savers in this vital community service.
The Volunteer Grants Program 2008 delivers on a Rudd Government election commitment.