Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall with RFS Superintendent Steve Mepham; Bernie Shakeshaft of Backtrack, who received successful funding in 2015; and young people undergoing RFS training.
Tuesday, 23 May 2017
NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has today urged allyouth-focused organisations in the region to apply for a share of the $1.1 million NSW Youth Opportunities fund.
One-off grants of up to $50,000 are now available for projects and organisations that help young people take up leadership positions, have greater involvement in their local community and overcome hurdles to achieve success.
Mr Marshall said the funding categories were broad and encouraged creative and novel solutions to boost youth engagement.
“If your organisation has been considering a new program to get young people involved in helping out your local community, then apply right away,” Mr Marshall said.
“A $50,000 injection of funding would be a great way to kickstart the program, and give young people the best opportunity possible.
“Likewise, the funding can be used to expand or continue existing programs that are have a positive impact in the region.”
Since 2012, Youth Opportunities has provided almost $8 million in funding to more than 148 projects across NSW.
Funded projects from previous rounds have focused on giving young people the opportunity to develop a diverse range of skills, including leadership, communication, and teamwork, as well as event management and planning.
The Northern Tablelands has seen collaboration between youth group Backtrack and the Rural Fire Service, training at-risk young people into highly-skilled airbase operators who assist the aerial bombing campaign during fire season.
Other funding rounds have supported aboriginal cultural heritage projects at Bundarra Central School and lifeskills training at Guyra’s Youth Hub.
The online application process is now open and closes on Monday, 26 June 2017. Successful applications will be announced later this year.
To apply for a Youth Opportunities grant or for more information, visit www.youth.nsw.gov.au/youth-opportunities