$19.4 million to support Australian communities

The wellbeing of families and communities is central to a range of community-based projects receiving $19.4 million in Australian Government funding over the next year.

The funding will enable 205 community organisations to deliver 234 local projects across Australia under the new Community Investment Program.

The Government values the enormous contribution these organisations make to local communities.

These projects provide on the ground, practical help for people facing social and personal challenges and will help strengthen communities through locally developed initiatives.

The projects include a strong focus on supporting vulnerable children and families, and building cohesive and strong communities.

Project activities are determined locally in response to community needs and include early intervention parenting support, support for volunteering and mentoring and camps for young people.

In Victoria, 16 kitchens across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula will continue to receive funding to provide an opportunity for people to come together to learn to cook healthy and affordable meals for themselves and their families.

This project, run by Peninsula Health, involves partnerships with local organisations, community groups, community projects and fresh food retailers. More than 500 people have participated over the last five years.

Community Solutions is also receiving funding for its Grandparents as Parents project in the Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

This project supports grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren to build better parenting skills and give the children a better start in life.

More than half of the funded projects support vulnerable children and families, consistent with the Government’s commitment to child-centred family policy.

By extending the funding of these projects, we are providing support services for communities, families and children that meet specific local needs.

The projects were formerly funded under the Government’s Local Answers Program.

A full list of the projects is available at: Community Investment Program