EIGHT local community groups in the New England will benefit from a share of $2.7 million from the Australian Government to support the work of local volunteers.

The grants awarded are between $1,000 and $5,000 and will enable local organisations to better support their volunteers to purchase small equipment, pay fuel, transport and training costs.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said volunteers are an integral part of our society, especially during difficult times. 

“Earlier this month we marked International Volunteer Day and celebrated the contribution of charity and community groups across New England as they continue to support the vulnerable and strengthen our community,” Mr Joyce said.

“I’m pleased to support the Government’s grant funding for organisations in the New England as part of this supplementary grant round.

“This additional funding will go a long way in helping even more volunteers at local organisations in Inverell, Tenterfield, Merriwa, Armidale, Mingoola, Tamworth and Walcha to continue their important work, through what has been a very tough year.”

Volunteer peak bodies across all states and territories are distributing the funding based on the needs of the sector in each state or territory. 

The 2020-21 Volunteer Grants round is expected to open mid-2021. Subscribe at communitygrants.gov.au to be alerted to this and other grant listings.  

For more information on volunteering, visit the Volunteering Australia website.

New England supplementary volunteer grant round recipients:

Inverell Basketball Association Incorporated - $3,696
Lions Club of Tenterfield Inc - $4,743
Merriwa Tourist Welcoming Centre and Men’s Shed - $2,800
Mingoola Hall Management Committee Inc - $5,000
Narwan Eels Rugby League & Sporting Club (Armidale) - $5,000
Tamworth Mountain Bikers Inc - $3,500
Tenterfield and District Community FM Radio Association Incorporated - $5,000
Walcha Show Society Incorporated - $5,000

(ENDS)