Volunteer Grants inject $18 million into local communities

In a huge boost for Australia’s volunteers, the Morrison Government has today announced more than $18 million as part of the 2021 Volunteer Grants, which will support thousands of community organisations across the nation.

Minister for Families and Social Services, Anne Ruston, said that the grants recognised the crucial role Australia’s volunteers play within our society, especially this year as we move forward out of the pandemic. 

“More than 8.7 million volunteers across the country freely give their time and skills to support Australians who need it most – contributing around $290 billion each year to our economy,” Minister Ruston said.

“Volunteering also plays an important role in Australia’s social landscape as a proven pathway to get people into jobs, reduce marginalisation and increase community participation.”

The 2021 Volunteer Grants provide organisations with grants of $1,000 to $5,000 to help purchase equipment, training and background screening checks for their volunteers. They can also be used to increase participation, promote awareness of volunteering opportunities, and adjust policies and procedures to strengthen member safety.

Assistant Minister for Children and Families, Michelle Landry, said that Volunteer Grants were all about helping the millions of Australians who dedicate their time and effort to helping others.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of community life, and I’m proud to be part of a Government that supports them everywhere around the nation,” Assistant Minister Landry said 

“Investing in volunteering is a key priority of our Government. These are people who are resilient, selfless and work hard to make our communities better and stronger”.

The $18 million of funding is being shared across 5,248 organisations to help them continue delivering local volunteering support.