News

WNSW PHN has launched its latest round of grants funding to support the recovery of communities affected by natural disasters.

Funded by the Commonwealth Government’s Empowering Our Communities Program, the WNSW PHN Community Wellbeing Grants are designed to assist the delivery of community-led and focussed wellbeing initiatives.

WNSW PHN Acting CEO, Robert Strickland, says the Community Wellbeing Grants are especially timely given the recent challenges that have been faced across the region.

“While most parts of our region have been experiencing drought or drought-like conditions since mid-2017, given the vast expanse of the WNWS PHN region, so many of our communities have also been facing their own unique trials,” Mr Strickland said.

“There have been communities affected by flooding and storm damage, and many inundated with plague-like proportions of mice, as well as other natural disasters.”

“No matter what natural occurrence any part of our region is dealing with currently or recovering from, we encourage everyone to take a serious look at our grants funding and be inspired to assist the wellbeing and long-term resilience of their local community,” he added.

Federal Member for Parkes and Regional Health Minister Mark Coulton said the Australian Government is pleased to fund these Community Wellbeing Grants, which aim to help improve mental health and build up resilience in those communities impacted by natural disasters.

“These grants are making a real difference in the Parkes electorate, funding initiatives such as wellness days, community barbecues, school excursions and health check clinics across the region,” Mr Coulton said.

“While most of the state is now out of drought, many towns in my electorate have this year been impacted by storms and floods. I encourage eligible organisations in these areas to consider how they could use a grant to help their communities recover.”

Businesses, organisations, and community groups based within the WNSW PHN region are eligible to apply, with funds of up to $20,000 available per application.

Applications will remain open to 5:00 PM Friday 4 June 2021 or until funds are exhausted, or the WNSW PHN closes off applications via the WNSW PHN website. Applications will be evaluated as received.

Details and application forms can be found via www.wnswphn.org.au/drought.