Community organisations in the New England Electorate can now apply for a share of $45.25 million in Australian Government funding for projects to help build inclusive and resilient communities.
The Minister for Social Services Christian Porter opened the Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) grants round on 13 July. He said the grants will help local organisations overcome disadvantage and build strong, safe, socially cohesive communities.
“The Government is also providing an additional $19.95 million to fund Volunteer Management Activity until 2021 to support volunteer organisations to encourage and increase volunteering in communities across Australia,” Mr Porter said.
“Well integrated and cohesive communities are underpinned by high-levels of volunteering and community participation.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, encouraged local organisations to apply for funding which will enable community groups to build people’s skills and capacity to actively engage in their community while improving their chances of getting a job.
“The Government’s investment in these grants recognises the import role local communities play in fostering social cohesion and helping strengthen national security,” Mr Joyce said.
“Funded projects may include cultural, educational or sporting activities that bring people of different cultures or faiths together; the development of online platforms for marginalised youth, and training and volunteering opportunities for humanitarian entrants or newly arrived migrants.
“Local organisations can apply for SARC grants under two funding pools – Inclusive Communities Grants and Community Resilience Grants.
“Through this grants round, community organisations can benefit from $60,000 to nearly $500,000 in funding for each project they deliver up to 2021.”
Applications for Inclusive Communities Grants and Community Resilience Grants are open until 23 August 2017.
For more information or to apply for a SARC grant, go to the GrantConnect website at www.grants.gov.au.
(ENDS)