$10 million in grants to support volunteers

$10 million in grants is now available to community organisations to support the efforts of their volunteers.

Announcing the opening of the Volunteer Grants 2016 funding round today, Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter, said the funding would help build stronger, more cohesive communities.

“About six million Australians volunteer each year and they play a critical role in helping other people be part of their communities,” the Minister said.

“Volunteers are often unsung heroes and they form the backbone to so many aspects of our way of life; from surf lifesaving to keep us safe when we swim; supporting our elderly to remain in their homes with Meals on Wheels; and helping the newest arrivals to Australia learn English.”

The Minister said grants could be between $1000 and $5000 and used by community organisations to buy much-needed equipment that supports their work, train volunteers or improve fundraising efforts.

“We will be giving particular priority to organisations working in disadvantaged communities and those affected by natural disasters,” the Minister said.

“I particularly encourage regional and Indigenous organisations to apply.

“Volunteering is particularly strong in our regional and rural areas, from those protecting our bush heritage in Cape York to the many volunteers who provided assistance after the recent South Australian storms. This reflects the great Australian tradition of stepping up and helping others when disaster strikes.”

The Volunteer Grants funding is part of the Australian Government’s $28 million Strengthening Communities programme that supports the capacity of communities to address local issues.

Applications for Volunteer Grants close 20 December 2016. For further information go to dss.gov.au/grants or call the Volunteer Grants 2016 Hotline on freecall 1800 020 283 or email grants@dss.gov.au.