$20 million Volunteer Grants round open

Community organisations across Australia are encouraged to apply for a share of $20 million in grants to support the work of their volunteers.

Minister for Social Services Dan Tehan today announced the opening of the Volunteer Grants round.

“The Turnbull Government recognises the value of Australia’s 8.7 million volunteers who give their skills, services and time to make life better for those around them,” Mr Tehan said.

“Volunteers make vital contributions to the life of Australian communities every day, from surf lifesaving to land care, and helping some of our most vulnerable.

“Volunteering is also a proven pathway to get people into jobs, reduce marginalisation and increase community participation.

“I encourage all volunteer organisations to apply for the grants to help make their work easier, safer and more rewarding.”

Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will help around 5,000 community organisations buy equipment such as laptops, pay fuel costs, train volunteers and improve their fundraising.

Across Australia, volunteer efforts make an estimated annual economic and social contribution of $290 billion.

For more information or to apply, visit the Australian Government’s GrantConnect website at www.grants.gov.au.

Applications close Tuesday 18 September 2018.