Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland is encouraging local not-for-profit organisations to apply for the 2024 Telstra Connected Communities Grant Program.
The program, which commenced in 2023, specifically targets Australia’s remote, rural, and regional communities with $600,000 being made available to foster inclusion and resilience over three years.
“Last year 30 local groups and not-for-profit organisations across regional Australia received funding through this program and it would be great to see some of this funding come to our communities,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Our region is home to so many fantastic volunteer organisations, many of which need further assistance. Funding through this program could make an enormous difference for your local organisation and the wider community.”
A total of $200,000 has been allocated to the program this year with grants of up to $10,000 available to not-for-profit community organisations that provide access to information, technology, education, and facilities for the purpose of building both social capital and digital capability.
The program has three themes and aims to foster:
- Resilient communities that are well prepared and socially connected when disaster strikes with the ability to renew and recover together,
- Sustainable communities that are diverse and inclusive, planning for the health, wellbeing and prosperity of their people and the planet; and
- Liveable communities that have digital capability and help to equip individuals with the skills to live, learn and work in a digital society.
Funds will be available for new or existing not-for-profit programs to help them scale their impact to help more Australians in rural and regional areas become better connected.
Not-for-profit organisations in regional, remote and rural Australia are eligible to apply, including associations, charities, local councils and entities such as education and health organisations.
Applications for the 2024 Telstra Connected Communities grant round are now open and close on 27 March 2024, with recipients having 12 months to complete the funded projects.
For more details on the program visit www.telstra.com.au/exchange/telstra-connected-communities-grants.
