Volunteers urged to apply for grant funding

In the midst of the Christmas rush the Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack wants to remind volunteer groups across the Riverina and Central West not to forget to apply for grant funding through the 2016 Commonwealth Government Volunteer Grants program.

In recognition of the valuable role all of our local volunteers play, the Coalition Government has invested $10 million in the Volunteer Grants 2016 funding round. 

“We all know of the valuable role that volunteers and groups play in our local community, including helping at local sporting events, fundraising and assisting after an emergency or natural disaster,” Mr McCormack said. 

“Grants between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to help not-for-profit community organisations or groups support their volunteers through practical measures.

“Grant money can be used for the purchase of small equipment items, reimbursement for volunteers’ fuel and transport costs, and contributions towards the cost of training and background screening checks.

“The grants provide a valuable opportunity for organisations to support its volunteers,” Mr McCormack said.

The Volunteer Grants 2016 Application Pack is available from the Department of Social Services’ website atwww.dss.gov.au/grants/grants/funding-open-for-application/volunteer-grants-2016 Organisations can also contact the 2016 Volunteer Grants Hotline on 1800 020 283 or email grants@dss.gov.au

As applications for the 2016 Volunteer Grants close at 2pm on Tuesday, 20 December 2016, Mr McCormack has urged those who might like to apply to do so without delay. Grant money might be the Christmas gift your local volunteers have been wishing for.

Cristy Houghton