Elders has opened applications for grants of up to $20k for grassroots initiatives that will promote sustainable, focused, and long-term change in rural and regional Australian communities.
Elders Community Giving Project will be in its second year in 2025. In 2024, Elders awarded 14 grants and over $185,000 to community groups around Australia, to support small-scale community driven initiatives that align to the Project’s pillars, which include:
- Investing in people and regions
- Environmental consciousness
- Innovation into the future
- Healthy bodies and healthy minds
- Encouraging and celebrating diversity
- Safety first
- People’s choice
GroWQ were a recipient of last year’s Project, receiving funds that allowed them to deliver first aid training tailored to the unique challenges of rural and remote areas, across 8 locations in Western Queensland.
“One of the most impactful outcomes was a story shared by a participant who, just nine days after completing the course, had to administer lifesaving first aid,” GroWQ General Manager Prue Button said.
“He expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating that without the training, the outcome might have been very different. This powerful example underscores the value of the program, knowing that even one life was saved makes the entire project worthwhile.
“We are immensely proud to have empowered members of our community with critical skills that not only enhance their confidence in managing emergencies but also contribute to the resilience and safety of rural and remote areas.
“This initiative has left a lasting impact, building stronger, more prepared communities in Western Queensland.”
CEO Mark Allison said there was an impressive range of applications in last year’s selection.
“I was impressed with the calibre of organisations and ideas submitted to us last year, demonstrating ingenuity and a willingness to drive change in our regions,” Mr Allison said.
“Several initiatives have since used the funding to make changes with meaningful impacts in their communities. We are proud to see these success stories come to life and are looking forward to supporting more community initiatives in 2025.”
Elders has 14 grants of up to $20,000 available to apply for. Criteria and further information can be found on the website. Applications close Thursday 15 May 2025.