As applications open with $500,000 in funding available
COINCIDING with Men’s Health Week, the Federal Government is encouraging Men’s Sheds right across regional Victoria, to submit their applications for the latest round of Government funding, in the National Men’s Shed Development Program (NSDP).
Applications officially opened last Tuesday, June 15, with round 22 set to see the remaining $500K of the Federal Government’s allocated $1M,(2020-2021 budget) distributed amongst successful applications.
Project funding of up to $8,000 per application, is now available to assist with the costs of hosting specific events, health and wellbeing focused initiatives and the planning and development of improvements to Men’s Shed. In addition, grants of up to $5,000 will be available for purchases of new equipment.
Since 2010, a total of $6.7M, in Government funding has been provided to new and existing Men’s Sheds.
The Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, explained the value provided by Men’s Shed’s was evident, with more than 1000 Men’s Sheds now operating across the country.
Mr Hunt further stated that the key to the growth and popularity of the Men’s Shed, was that it provided real opportunities for people to come together and build new connections; both within the Men’s Shed itself and within the broader community.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough for many Australians, and it is vitally important that Shed members remained connected to their community during this time,” Mr Hunt said.
Federal Member for Nicholls, Damian Drum added further context; as he noting the previous round saw three Sheds across his electorate, successfully gain project funding from their submissions.
Mr Drum used these Shed’s to offer example, to any members who may be considering preparing a submission; the Seymour Men’s Shed received $2,250 to contribute to site improvements, Rushworth Men’s Shed invested their $1,200 in first aid training and seminars for members; and the Nagambie Lakes Men’s Shed, purchased $600 worth of safety equipment.
More information, plenty of useful tips and advice as well as contact details for applications can be found on the website www.mensshed.org.
