Grants of up to $5000 to purchase equipment, subsidise petrol costs or provide training courses for volunteers are now available to community groups and organisations across Bendigo and central Victoria.
The Nationals Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie has encouraged local community and sporting clubs, and non-profit organisations to make the most of the opportunity and apply for funding through the Volunteer Grants 2012 program.
Senator McKenzie said volunteer groups make an invaluable contribution to local communities, providing services and facilities that governments would never be in a position to offer.
“There are approximately 500,000 volunteers in regional Victoria.
“The efforts and dedication of these volunteers support a huge number of sporting clubs and community groups.
“Bendigo would definitely be worse off without the work that local volunteers put in, which often goes unnoticed to the general community and is significantly appreciated by those within the organisations.
“The Volunteer Grants program is a great opportunity to relieve some of the costs incurred by local clubs and groups such as equipment, travel and training.
“It’s important that any interested clubs and groups apply to the program as soon as possible, as applications close next month.”
Further information on the Volunteer Grants 2012 program and an online application form can be found at http://www.fahcsia.gov.au/sa/volunteers/funding/Pages/volunteer_grants2012.aspx
Organisations can also request paper-based application forms by calling 1800 183 374 or by emailing vg2012@fahcsia.gov.au
Applications to the Volunteer Grants 2012 program close on July 25, 2012.