The Andrews Labor Government has opened applications for grants that will help young people in the Werribee electorate region to reach their full potential and connect with their local community.

Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas, is encouraging local governments and community organisations to apply for the Labor Government’s $12.3 million Engage! 2018-20 grant program.

The grants — between $90,000 and $150,000 over three years — will assist eligible organisations to engage young people through volunteering, mentorships, leadership, skills building and other community building activities.

The grants will support programs that help young people aged 12 to 25 years to participate in community life, strengthen their career pathways and improve their health and wellbeing.

They will assist organisations to support a range of young people – including Aboriginal young people, young people from culturally diverse backgrounds, LGBTQI young people, and young people with a disability.

Eligible local governments and community organisations who work with young people in their communities are encouraged to apply.

Engage! supports the Government’s plan to better connect young people with their communities, as outlined in the Youth Policy: Building Stronger Youth Engagement.

The Engage! 2015-17 grant round supported more than 100 organisations and engaged more than 100,000 young people over three years.

Applications for the Engage! 2018-20 grant round close on Friday, 10 November 2017.

To apply or for more information visit www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“We want more young people in the Werribee electorate to get involved in community life, and I urge local governments and community organisations to apply for the Engage! program.”

“By giving young people access to mentoring and other skill-building programs, we can help them to build a brighter future.”

“I look forward to seeing organisations apply for funding for programs that reflect the diversity of young people in the Werribee electorate.”