Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor is calling on local volunteers to apply for grants of up to $5000.

He said Volunteer Grants 2015 was a Federal programme supporting volunteering in local communities.

“According to the latest census (2011) 24,000 people in Hume do some form of voluntary work for an organisation or group.

“Volunteers play a critical role in our towns and villages. Sporting clubs, veterans organisations, community committees, landcare groups, charities, emergency services – they all survive on volunteer support. Where would we be without those fantastic people who give their time and effort for free?” Mr Taylor said.

He strongly encouraged volunteers to put their hand up for some financial help.

“Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to not for profit community organisations to support their volunteers through practical measures like purchasing small equipment items or reimbursement for the cost of fuel, training and background checks.

“This assistance, which will be paid by 30 June 2016, is aimed at making volunteering easier, safer and more enjoyable,” he said.

Applications for Volunteer Grants 2015 close at 2pm on Wednesday 9 December 2015.

Mr Taylor said further information, including the application pack, was available on the Department of Social Services website: https://www.dss.gov.au/grants

Or anyone interested can contact the hotline on 1800 183 374 or email vg2015@dss.gov.au