Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, has called on community organisations to apply for a share of up to $20 million in funding to support the efforts of their volunteers.

Mr Joyce said applications for the Volunteer Grants round were now open.

“Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will help community organisations in the New England buy equipment such as laptops, pay fuel costs to travel the big distances in our electorate, train volunteers and improve fundraising,” Mr Joyce said.

“About 49 organisations, both big and small, here in the New England benefited from the Volunteer Grants in 2016, including Urbenville Progress Association Incorporated and Scone CWA Evening Branch.

“Glen Innes & District Community Centre used their grant to help fund the reimbursement of fuel costs and contribute to volunteers’ training costs.

“Meanwhile the Inverell Community Men's Shed used its grant to purchase new computer equipment, first-aid gear and construction tools.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community and by continuing to help each other, working together, we are building a stronger more resilient New England electorate, especially during these tough times in drought.

“I encourage all not-for-profit organisations in the New England to apply for the Volunteer Grants to help make the work of our volunteers easier, safer and more enjoyable.”

For more information or to apply, visit the Australian Government’s GrantConnect website at communitygrants.gov.au

Applications close Tuesday 18 September 2018.

(ENDS)