28 November 2008
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR RUDD GOVERNMENT’S $3.2 MILLION EMERGENCY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT FUND
Attorney-General Robert McClelland has today officially opened applications for this year’s National Emergency Volunteer Support Fund, urging interested parties to seek Government funding.
“Australia’s emergency volunteers number up to half a million people and provide an invaluable service to the community every year. This $3.2 million fund provides vital support to help volunteer organisations to improve recruitment, retention and training initiatives,” said Mr McClelland.
“The Rudd Government recognises that emergency volunteers give freely of their time to protect the lives and property of others and deserve to be supported in this way.”
Over 778 projects have been funded through the program to a total value in excess of $18.5 million.
“I encourage all eligible emergency volunteer organisations to make applications to this fund. The money will help to build and train their pool of talented people to be ready for the whole range of possible emergencies,” said Mr McClelland.
Applications for funding through the initiative in 2009/10 will close on 6 March 2009.
Details of the program, including Guidelines, Application Forms and Applicant Guides can be found on the Emergency Management Australia website: www.ema.gov.au/communityengagement
Media Contact:
Adam Sims, Attorney-General’s Office, 0419 480 224
Alastair Wilson, EMA Media Liaison, 0408 606 462