Government Provides $21 million to Support Volunteers

Not for Profit organisations, who are supported by volunteers, can apply for Australian Government grants of up to $5,000 to purchase equipment and cover the cost of petrol.

The Government says $21 million will be distributed across Australia in the 2009 round of volunteer grants, supporting more than 7000 organisations and 900,000 volunteers.

Organisations will receive grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 to purchase equipment, including computers, tools and air conditioners and also help with fuel costs.

Earlier this year, 7200 organisations received funding to help purchase equipment such as first aid kits, fridges, barbeques, computers and software. The funding has also helped thousands of volunteers cover fuel costs incurred while helping others in the community.

Applications are open for six weeks from Friday 14 August to 25 September 2009.

For more information on the 2009 Volunteer Grants program, including an online application form, please visit www.fahcsia.gov.au