Funding available to assist younger veterans
I would encourage community and ex-service organisations to apply for grants which are now available for projects that deliver sustainable services for younger veterans.The Supporting Younger Veterans (SYV) grants program recognises the importance of the transition phase for Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel as they leave the military.$1 million is available in the second round for projects that build community support and service the unique needs of younger veterans transitioning to civilian life.Applications are invited for a range of initiatives including mentoring, team building, self-improvement, and creative activities that promote social inclusion and peer-to-peer support for younger veterans.
Local Drug Action Team applications now open
The second round of applications are now open for local organisations to join the Liberal National Government’s Local Drug Action Team program.Community groups across the country are joining forces to deliver targeted local action to help tackle drug use and addiction.We need to work together to fight the scourge of ice and other drugs which cause so much harm to individuals, families and our communities.The program is an initiative under the Liberal National Government’s four year, $298 million investment to reduce the harms of ice, drugs and alcohol.
$15 million for cyclone community recovery
THE announcement of almost $15 million in Category C community recovery funding for Local Government Areas (LGAs) including Mackay, Whitsunday, Isaac and Rockhampton is a sensible support step for those who have been adversely affected by Cyclone Debbie.This further level of Category C Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) funding provides for such initiatives as a personal support program to provide counselling for those experiencing personal and emotional difficulties, and financial counselling for those adjusting to changed financial circumstances.Another important element of this additional funding will be the provision of specialist mental health services and support for those experiencing severe distress and mental health disorders.It can be particularly appropriate for those with existing mental health problems (including children), and for emergency responders.
Week highlights suicide prevention
10 OCTOBER 2016: Mental Health week, which starts today, is an opportunity to highlight the important suicide prevention work undertaken by individuals and organisations in North Queensland.
Three little words can save a life
8 SEPTEMBER 2016: R U OK? Sometimes it’s the simplest words that are the hardest to say, but today we are being encouraged to start a conversation with someone if we notice they are struggling to cope. Today is R U OK? Day, a day to take the first step, check in and reconnect with those around us - after all, we are stronger together.