Community groups are being invited to apply for funding to support community initiatives that improve the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians.
The latest round of the Tasmanian Liberal Government's Healthy Tasmania Step Forward Grants 2023-24 is now open and community groups can apply for grants of up to $5,000 to provide support for activities and equipment that help people to lead healthy and active lives.
Community sector organisations, community groups and local government are all eligible to apply for the grants, with applications to close once the funding pool of $100,000 is allocated.
Minister for Health, Guy Barnett, said the grants were part of the Tasmanian Government's broader goal to improve the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians and reduce the burden on the health system from chronic conditions in the long term.
"Funding is available for a broad range of activities and equipment that promotes physical activity, healthy and sustainable eating, healthy lifestyles, positive mental health and community engagement," said Minister Barnett.
"The grants bring together communities, services and all levels of government to work in partnership to improve health and wellbeing. Not only do projects funded through this program promote and maintain the health and wellbeing of individuals, but the increased community participation is good for our whole state."
The small grant scheme is returning for its second year after $150,000 was awarded in 2022-23 to 33 successful applicants.
Successful initiatives ranged from purchasing equipment for community kitchen and gardens to supporting community training and events.
The Step Forward Grants are one of four grant streams in the Healthy Tasmania Fund, to which the Tasmanian Liberal Government has committed $8 million to over three years as a key part of the Healthy Tasmania Five-Year Strategic Plan 2022-2026.
Organisations can apply for grant funding on the Department of Health website: https://www.health.tas.gov.au/about/what-we-do/strategic-programs-and-initiatives/healthy-tasmania-strategic-plan
