Community called to apply for grants to host events for youth

Communities across Western Australia are being urged to apply for funding to hold an event during National Youth Week (NYW) 2010.

Youth Minister Donna Faragher today announced that organisations could apply for NYW grants of up to $1,000, from a pool of nearly $70,000, to hold an event for young people.

The State Government provides $40,000 with the Federal Government providing the remainder of the funds.

National Youth Week, which runs from April 10-18, 2010, highlights the positive contributions young people make to the community.  The 2010 theme is 'Live it now'.

"It is Australia's biggest annual celebration of young people, involving thousands of events, concerts, competitions and fun ways for our youth to engage with their communities," Mrs Faragher said.

"Activities and events undertaken during NYW are developed by young people, for young people, to celebrate and recognise the value of all young Australians to their communities."

To be considered for a grant, organisations must hold events that:

·          provide opportunities for young people aged 12-25 to express their ideas and views, raise issues of concern to them, and act on issues that affect their lives

·          provide opportunities to the wider community to listen to young people and acknowledge and celebrate the positive contribution that young people make to their local communities

·          highlight issues of concern to young people.

There were 76 National Youth Week activities held across WA in April 2009 with grants totalling more than $61,000.

"Participation is a key element in the development of young people, and National Youth Week events encourage learning, confidence building and social and community connections which help to prepare young people for success," the Minister said.

For more information telephone the Department for Communities Office for Youth on 6217 8400, Freecall 1800 281 116, or go online at http://www.communities.wa.gov.au/youth. The application period closes on November 30.