Over 50 Whitlam Community Groups to receive funding through the Australian Government’s Volunteer Grants Program
Hon Ged Kearney MP
Assistant Minister for Social Services
Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence
Carol Berry MP
Federal Member for Whitlam
Thursday 10th September 2026
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
Community organisations across the southern Illawarra and Southern Highlands are set to benefit from the Australian Government's $9.85 million 2025-26 Volunteer Grants round, which will help support the volunteers who strengthen local communities.
In the Whitlam electorate, 51 organisations will share a total of $66,600 through the program. They are among more than 4,500 community groups across Australia to receive Volunteer Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 to support their volunteers.
Grants can be used for practical expenses such as IT and communication equipment, volunteer training and screening checks, accessibility upgrades, insurance, and transport costs.
Among the recipients are Albion Park Crows Junior AFL Club, which will use its grant to deliver First Aid training for volunteers, helping them develop the skills and confidence to safely support young players during training and matches.
Wombatised Inc – Volunteer Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Group has secured funding for a dedicated laptop and essential software to streamline volunteer coordination, strengthen record-keeping, and support the rescue, treatment and rehabilitation of native wildlife in the Southern Highlands.
Oak Flats Swimming Club will use the grant to improve volunteer facilities at its clubhouse. This includes installing a split-system air conditioner, replacing outdated ceiling fans, and securing internet access to support electronic payments, administration, and volunteer coordination. These upgrades will create a more comfortable and functional environment for the volunteers who keep the club running year-round.
Recognising the importance of our nations volunteers, the Albanese Labor Government has invested over $91 million into strengthening the volunteer sector to ensure it can continue to thrive.
More information on Volunteer Grants is available on the Department of Social Services website.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister, Ged Kearney:
“Volunteers are at the heart of Australian communities. From a junior sport coach to an emergency response worker, they bring us together, respond in times of need and help make our communities stronger.
“Volunteer Grants are one of the ways we are showing our commitment to supporting the critical role of volunteers and helping all those who want to volunteer to have that chance.
“Our country and our communities greatly benefit from the volunteers who give their time to help others and contribute to the wellbeing of all.”
Quotes Attributable to Federal Member for Whitlam, Carol Berry:
“When I am asked about the communities I have the privilege of representing, the first thing I talk about is our volunteers. I have been amazed by the small army of people across Whitlam who quietly give their time to coach, mentor, support and care for others. Our community simply wouldn't be the same without them.
“I’ve visited many volunteer organisations across the electorate, I often hear the same thing: they need support for essentials like insurance, internet access, volunteer training, or equipment. These expenses can place pressure on volunteer organisations that are relying on member contributions, grants and donations.
“That's why I am incredibly proud to see 51 local volunteer organisations receive funding through the Volunteer Grants program, helping them continue the vital work they do across the southern Illawarra and Southern Highlands.
“What might seem like a small investment can have a huge impact on an organisation's ability to raise funds, recruit and retain volunteers, and continue delivering for our community. The Volunteer Grant Program funding gives our local volunteers the support they need to keep doing the incredible work they do for our community.”
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