Grants of up to $10,000 available
Applications have opened for Australia Post's 2024 Community Grants program, which funds community-led, local projects across Australia. From today, eligible not-for-profit groups can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects which have the primary purpose of improving mental health and wellbeing in local communities.
Last year's program saw 72 projects awarded funding across the country, totalling over $500,000, with half of the successful applications awarded in rural and remote locations.
Australia Post General Manager, Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said: "The wide range of organisations and projects that received grants last year demonstrated the need to support projects that help people connect to improve mental health and wellbeing."
"Each year there is a great diversity of mental health support projects across our Community Grants applications From groups that keep elderly Australians connected, to supporting workers with mental health first aid training and even surf therapy, we encourage applications from all local communities", Ms. Tracey said.
"We know that when we connect, we feel better, which is why projects supported by Australia Post share a common thread and a commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing through the power of connection.
"Since 2013, more than 800 projects have been awarded a Community Grant from Australia Post, and we are proud to continue our support of these often-unsung heroes of our communities," concluded Ms. Tracey.
Professor and Director of Centre for Wellbeing Science at the University of Melbourne, Dianne Vella-Brodrick said: "This initiative is essential in supporting community-led projects that enhance mental health and wellbeing across Australia particularly in communities where mental health issues are a growing concern. By funding local projects, Australia Post is helping communities build stronger connections in their own unique way."
"The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that more than 1 in 5 Australian's aged 16-85 years experienced a mental health disorder in the past year, with anxiety and depression being the most common. These statistics underscore the urgent need for initiatives like the Community Grants to provide support at a community level.
"This program empowers local groups to develop initiatives tailored to their specific needs - in turn, fostering ownership, motivation, and collaboration. When communities design and implement their own projects, they build local skills and competencies, which strengthens social bonds and overall wellbeing." Ms. Vella-Brodrick said.
Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the Community Grant guidelines carefully to check eligibility requirements, with eligible community organisations able to apply until 11.59pm on 1 July 2024. To check eligibility, visit: 2024 Australia Post Community Grants Guidelines (auspost.com.au).
Successful applicants will be notified in September 2024.
The Community Grants program illustrates Australia Post's commitment to mental health, which includes a partnership with Beyond Blue that to date has delivered mental health resources to more than sixteen million letterboxes across Australia. Australia Post is also a founding member of Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, which supports mental health and wellbeing in the transport and logistics industries.
ENDS
Media contact:
Erin Price, Public Relations Manager
0487 253 908
