The Minns Labor Government is delivering $1.5 million in grants to empower young people to design and deliver a range of unique community projects across NSW.
Thirty-five organisations were successful in securing grants of up to $50,000 under the 2024 Youth Opportunities program. The funding supports the delivery of youth-led projects that aim to address the needs of marginalised young people in their communities.
Each project will involve young people at every stage - from identifying local needs and developing a project proposal through to its design, delivery and final review.
The innovative projects will increase young people's connection to their communities and give them the chance to develop essential leadership, communication and management skills - helping them to achieve their full potential.
Marginalised youth can include people aged between 12 and 24 who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, are from lower socio-economic backgrounds, are transitioning from out-of-home care, live with a disability, are young carers or have contact with the justice system.
Since it was first launched in 2012, the Youth Opportunities program has provided $18.3 million in funding to 399 projects across NSW.
The program funds a diverse range of projects from across NSW, including in rural and regional areas, and encourages applications from Aboriginal and culturally and linguistically diverse organisations.
The projects announced today will commence in 2025.
Minister for Youth Rose Jackson said:
"The Youth Opportunities grants are a fantastic and important program for NSW communities and marginalised young people.
"The 35 successful projects are from diverse areas across the state and include hands-on workshops, running markets and showcases, sharing Aboriginal cultural knowledge and helping young people to develop essential skills.
"When young people feel empowered to bring their ideas and opinions to the table and feel that these contributions are respected, it fosters personal confidence and professional growth.
"This program allows NSW youth to take the lead on a range of innovative projects, overcoming barriers and creating a greater sense of belonging within their local area."
