VOLUNTEER GROUPS URGED TO APPLY FOR GRANTS

The work of volunteers is set to receive a big boost with Member for Riverina Michael McCormack announcing grants totalling up to $66,225 will be made available to organisations in the region.

Mr McCormack said expressions of interest (EOI) in the $10 million 2022-23 Volunteer Grants Round were now open.

Community groups can apply for grants between $1,000 and $5,000.

“Grants in this round can be used to buy equipment for volunteers or for the reimbursement of volunteer fuel, screening checks or training costs,” Mr McCormack said.

“From talking and listening to volunteer organisations throughout the Riverina and Central West, I know how helpful grants in previous rounds have been in delivering the vital services they provide in our communities and I urge all volunteer groups to contact my office to obtain an expression of interest form as soon as possible.

“The ability for volunteer groups to raise money to support the invaluable work they do is limited, especially in these times of rising costs of living, so every cent they can get is so important to them.

“The grants will sustain volunteers through these tough times.”

Mr McCormack said further information about the Volunteer Grants Program can be obtained by telephoning his Wagga Wagga Electorate Office on (02) 6921 4600 or by emailing michael.mccormack.mp@aph.gov.au

The EOI form can be downloaded here

More information is also available by visiting the Australian Government’s GrantConnect website at www.grants.gov.au

The EOI period closes on Monday 19 September 2022. Mr McCormack will then consult with a local advisory committee on which EOIs progress to the application stage. Successful EOIs will be invited to apply for a grant on 15 November. Successful applicants are expected to be announced in June 2023.