CFA has launched its $10 million Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program (EVGP) and is inviting applications from individual brigades as well as joint applications across brigade catchments.
The grants are part of an extra investment of $60 million in the Victorian fire services, which was recently announced by the Minister for Emergency Services.
The EVGP, which consists of $10 million over two years, will fund locally-driven initiatives that strengthen volunteerism and build brigade sustainability.
It will fund, or part-fund, initiatives which strengthen brigade culture and will prioritise applications which focus on areas including:
- Addressing immediate needs and enhancing operational capabilitiies
- improving culture, diversity and fairness
- strengthening volunteer leadership skills
- encouraging recruitment, retention and recognition of volunteers
- reflecting the evolving needs and demographics of the communities which our brigades and volunteers serve.
Grant allocations will be available for an individual brigade, with grants up to a maximum of $250,000 for collective applications from groups of at least 10 brigades.
“These grants will support and strengthen our brigades, enabling them to build on the outstanding service they provide to the community.” said CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington.
“We have consulted extensively with volunteers to identify important areas that will enhance volunteerism and improve sustainability. The grants are a key outcome of that process.
“The funding injection will give our volunteers the tools to assist the community and help deliver our mission of protecting lives and property.
“We’re very proud of our volunteers and the important role they play in their communities over the fire season and throughout the year.”
CFA will also consult with District Planning Committees (volunteer-based committees) in making decisions about grant allocations.
Applications close at the end of February 2018.
To apply, or for more information about the grants or the application process, click here.