Volunteer community organisations across Ballarat and region will benefit from an injection of just over $100,000 in grants from the Federal Labor Government.
Announcing the grants yesterday, Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King, said she recognises the invaluable contribution volunteers make to communities across the region.
“They are the life-blood of our communities, but the increasing financial strains they are under make it difficult for them to deliver the important services they provide every day,” Ms King said.
“These grants will help community organisations to do such things as purchase much-needed equipment, fund the costs of training courses, secure background checks and pay for transport costs of volunteers with disability who are unable to drive.”
A total of 34 grants have been made to organisations in Ballarat and region.
A total of 15 organisations in the City of Ballarat are receiving $41,969.52, 12 grants to organisations in Hepburn Shire are worth $40,665.90 and six community groups in Moorabool Shire will be granted a total of $16,315.15.
There is one additional grant of $1730 to the Haddon Rural Fire Brigade within that section of Golden Plains Shire which falls into the Ballarat Electorate.
Ms King said the funding is provided under the Volunteer Grants Program which makes allocations of between $1000 and $5000 to help volunteers meet the ever-present costs of running a not-for-profit organisation.
“This is just one way the Government can say thank you for the selfless work and commitment of volunteers across our region,” Ms King said.
“Through these grants, volunteers will be better equipped to assist those who are marginalised, disadvantaged or facing hardship to remain connected to their community.”
For further information go to www.fahcsi.gov.au or call 1800183374.