Aussie volunteers reap $21 million

The Rural Fire Service and Returned Soldiers League (RSL) are among thousands of
volunteer organisations to benefit from $21 million of grants under a federal
government initiative.
The money will be distributed to 6000 community organisations, allowing more than
250,000 volunteers to purchase needed items such as computers, air conditioners and
refrigerators.
Petrol reimbursements alone will assist more than 29,000 volunteers, federal
Community Services Minister Jenny Macklin said in a statement on Wednesday.
The grants will also help organisations meet the costs of training volunteers.
"Volunteers are the backbone of so many of our community groups," Ms Macklin said.
"Every day they are out in our regional towns and cities, giving their time,
expertise and understanding to help people in need, protect the environment and
enrich our sporting and cultural life."
As part of the initiative, more than $1 million will be distributed to 241 RSL
branches.
The Country Fire Authority and Rural Fire Service will receive almost $660,000 to
support more than 9400 volunteers.
"These grants will help purchase radio transceivers, breathing apparatus,
high-pressure cleaners, air conditioners and computer equipment to be used by
volunteers in community awareness activities and to respond to emergency
situations," Ms Macklin said.
About $200,000 will help cover costs incurred by Meals on Wheels volunteers.
NSW will get the lion's share of the grants, with 91,371 volunteers set to benefit
from more than $7 million.



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