Not-for-profit organisations across the New England and Parkes electorates are being urged to act quickly, with applications for the latest round of Australian Government Volunteer Grants closing soon.
Expressions of interest for grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 must be submitted by 5pm on Friday, 27 March.
The funding is designed to support community organisations that rely on volunteers, helping boost participation and ensure volunteers can continue their work safely and effectively.
Unlike open normal competitive grant programs, Volunteer Grants are allocated with the assistance and recommendation of local federal MPs, with organisations required to submit an expression of interest through their electorate offices.
Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said the grants provide practical support to local groups.
“These grants can help make a difference to organisations who in turn make a difference in their communities,” Mr Chaffey said.
“I encourage eligible organisations to reach out to my office for an expression of interest form.”
In neighbouring New England, Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said the program recognises the often unseen contribution of volunteers across regional communities.
“I always say there are three types of people in this world: the ones that throw rubbish out a car window, those that complain about those that throw rubbish out the car window, and there are those that pick it up. This program supports those special people in our community that pick it up,” Mr Joyce said.
“Whether it’s volunteering with the local CWA, helping in the canteen at the local ag show, reading to the elderly at the nursing home, or responding to fires with the State Emergency Service, our volunteers play an important role in our communities,” he said.
Funding can be used for a wide range of practical items and services, including communication tools such as phones, computers and software, insurance costs, and equipment to support volunteer-run activities.
Grants can also support initiatives focused on young volunteers or adults working with children, including items that assist parents and carers in supporting a child’s development.
Mr Joyce said the funding could also help cover costs such as equipment for junior sports clubs, promotional materials to attract volunteers, and expenses related to transport, training, and accreditation.
The Volunteer Grants Program aims to strengthen community organisations and improve access to volunteering opportunities, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Organisations interested in applying must contact their local federal MP to submit an expression of interest before the deadline.
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