Funding boost for local volunteers this National Volunteer Week
The Morrison Government is providing a funding injection of $297,480 for 71 local community groups across South East Melbourne to support the work of local volunteers.
Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the funding will go a long way to support organisations and their volunteers through what has been a tough year.
“The bushfires had a devastating impact on many of our people and communities across the country and we are now living through a global pandemic,” Minister Ruston said.
“Volunteers freely give their time and skills to support others and will play a key role in communities over the next few months. This funding recognises the sacrifices they make to help deliver vital services to those who need it most.”
Senator for Victoria David Van said volunteer organisations including community support groups, conservation volunteers, multicultural organisations, community sporting groups and creative arts groups would receive Federal Government volunteer grants to support the important work of their volunteers.
“These grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will be used for volunteer training and equipment to enable longstanding volunteer community organisations across South East Melbourne to continue their important community work,” Senator Van said.
“While the work of our volunteers may be unpaid, it is not unrecognised. From fighting bushfires, delivering food to vulnerable Australians in isolation and helping out with the weekend sport, our volunteers are all local champions.”
“Their contribution is vital to ensuring that we continue to support families, provide employment pathways for young people and strengthen community resilience.”
Senator Van said the funding injection coincides with National Volunteer Week being celebrated this week.
Nationally, volunteering has an estimated annual economic and social contribution of $290 billion
The awarded grants are between $1,000 and $5,000. National Volunteer Week runs from 18-24 May.
