Helping volunteers pay for petrol

Under the Program, grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 can also be used to purchase equipment, including computers, tools, air conditioners and sporting equipment.

 

“I am thrilled that local community groups will be able to access financial support to help them undertake their important work”, Jenny Macklin MP, Federal Member for Jagajaga, said.

 

“Every day volunteers are out in their local communities working tirelessly to help the elderly, the sick and those who’ve hit hard times.

 

“As well as freely giving their time, many volunteers also end up out of pocket.

 

“A major expense for volunteers can be the cost of petrol used to undertake voluntary activities. Over the last five years, volunteers’ petrol costs have risen by 40 per cent – a significant burden for not-for-profit organisations and their volunteers” Ms Macklin said.

 

This new measure will assist volunteers who use their vehicles to support people in the community for activities like delivering meals, taking disadvantaged children to weekend sport and visiting the elderly.

 

Voluntary and other charitable organisations can apply for funding to contribute to the

reimbursement of fuel costs incurred by their volunteers.

 

School Parents and Citizens Associations (P&Cs) will also have the opportunity to apply for funding along with other not-for-profit organisations.

 

Applications open on Saturday 6 September and close on Friday 17 October. Organisations will receive funding by the end of the year.

 

More information on the program, including application forms and guidelines, is available at www.fahcsia.gov.au or by calling the toll-free hotline on 1800 183 374.