2019-20 Volunteer Grants round now open

The Morrison Government is backing volunteers in local communities with up to $10 million in funding to be shared across each of the country’s 151 federal electorates. Nominations close 21 February 2020 with nominated organisations invited to apply for funding in March 2020.

Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said that funding of up to $66,000 is available in each electorate. 

Funding between $1,000 and $5,000 is available under the 2019-20 Volunteer Grants to help community organisations to support the efforts of Australia’s volunteers. The grants can be used to buy small equipment for volunteers or for the reimbursement of volunteer fuel, transport or training costs. 

“Volunteering is part of the Australian way of life,” Minister Ruston said. “It has many social and economic benefits such as increased confidence, reduced marginalisation and skill development.” 

“The grants form part of the Morrison Government’s commitment to supporting organisations whose volunteers assist communities and encourage the inclusion of vulnerable people in our society.” 

Each Federal Member of Parliament is able to nominate organisations to apply for funding in their electorate between now and 21 February 2020*. The Department of Social Services will then send an application form to nominated organisations to apply for funding in March 2020*. Successful applicants will be announced in June 2020*. 

For more information about the Department of Social Services’ grants, please go to the Australian Government’s GrantConnect website at www.grants.gov.au 

*Note – nomination, application and announcement dates were extended and updated on 19 December 2019.