Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is encouraging local community groups to apply for a Volunteer Grant to help foster community connections.

The Volunteer Grants support the work of community organisations by reducing barriers for volunteers and increasing participation and awareness of volunteering opportunities.

Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to help community organisations to support the efforts of their volunteers.

Grants can be used to purchase communication or insurance items, provide training, or for items that support volunteer cohorts and volunteer-run activities.

Mrs Phillips said Expressions of Interest were now open to eligible not-for-profit community organisations that rely on volunteers.

“During the last round, 24 community organisations across the South Coast shared in more than $65,000 funding to assist with things like purchasing small equipment items, fuel, training courses and background screening checks,” she said.

“Among the 2024-25 recipients were the Batemans Bay Youth Foundation, Callala District Soccer Club, Gerringong & District Historical Society, Kiama Pipe Band, Milton Theatre Committee and the Ulladulla Blessing of the Fleet Festival.

“It’s fantastic that we were able to provide a boost for these 24 organisations, whether sporting, arts, social or cultural.

“They may be small grants, but they can make a big difference to community groups by reducing barriers for volunteers and increasing participation.

“I’ll always back our wonderful volunteers that give back so much of their time and knowledge, and I will continue to support their work in assisting our South Coast communities.”

Organisations can fill out an EOI HERE.

Contact the office of Fiona Phillips MP on 4423 1782 or email [email protected] for more information or help.

Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips congratulated Gerringong and District Historical Society president Geoff Webb on last year’s Volunteer Grant.