Applications have opened for Australia Post’s 2023 Community Grants program, which funds community-led, local projects that connect individuals and communities to improve mental health and mental well-being.
Eligible not-for-profit groups across Australia can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects which have the primary purpose of improving mental health and well-being in local communities. Last year’s program saw half of all grants made to support organisations located in regional and remote Australia.
“Each year it’s incredible to see the diversity across our Community Grant applicants and the wonderful services they provide their community. From after-school programs that help teenagers navigate loss, to groups supporting people experiencing loneliness while living or caring for someone with dementia,” said Tanny Mangos, Australia Post Executive General Manager, Community, Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement.
Mangos, highlighted that she was excited to see who would apply, given last year’s recipients included a variety of organisations supporting older Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and organisations helping people with a disability – to name a few.
“The common thread running through all the projects Australia Post supports is a primary focus on improving mental health and wellbeing,” said Mangos.
She added that their Post Offices are at the heart of Australian communities, which is why they are deeply connected to the impact of locally-led initiatives.
“We’re incredibly proud of our Community Grants program and its role in supporting groups as they work to deliver positive mental health outcomes across Australia.”
Since 2013, 750 projects have been awarded a community grant from Australia Post, with 70 grants given in 2022. The Community Grants program illustrates Australia Post’s commitment to mental health, which includes a partnership with Beyond Blue that to date has delivered mental health resources to more than 7 million letterboxes across Australia.
Australia Post is also a founding member of Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, which supports mental health and well-being in the transport and logistics industries.
Grant applicants are encouraged to review the guidelines carefully to check eligibility requirements, with eligible community organisations able to apply until 11:59 PM on the 2nd of July, 2023 via auspost.com.au/grants.