Applications for Community Investment Program now open

Announced by the Minister for Ports Stephen Dawson MLC today, we have opened our latest round of funding for regional community groups across the South West, Great Southern and Goldfields-Esperance.

The program has provided over $1.5 million of funding to grassroots community groups over the past five years, through grants of up to $5,000.

Applications are open until Friday 24 October with more information on eligibility available on our website.

Previous recipient, Thommo's Community Garden received a $5,000 community grant for infrastructure upgrades, where volunteers spend more than 200 hours a week to grow fresh fruit and vegetables for Foodbank WA's Bunbury branch.

Foodbank WA, a beneficiary of both Southern Ports and Thommo's Garden, is the Western Australian arm of the nation's leading food-relief organisation. It has provided 9.2 million meals to Western Australians over the past 12 months.

Minister for Ports Stephen Dawson MLC said "Supporting grassroots initiatives, such as Thommo's Community Garden, to make their own meaningful contributions is precisely why the Southern Ports Community Investment Program exists. These improvements to the facility's outdoor space will make such a big difference to the many volunteers who keep the garden running.”

"These initiatives are a shining example of the Cook Government's work to relieve cost of living pressures for Western Australian families."

Minister for the South West, and Member for Bunbury, Don Punch MLA added "The community funding and support Southern Ports provided to more than 35 local groups in the South West last year continues to strengthen our region.

"Thommo's Community Garden is a hidden gem in Bunbury that provides fresh and organic produce to people in our community who need it most.

"With added benefits for Foodbank WA these community partnerships are a win for everyone involved."

Southern Ports CEO Keith Wilks said that the organisation’s drive to create opportunities throughout its regions goes beyond facilitating trade, it is about strengthening communities.

"Regional communities across the South West, Great Southern and Goldfields-Esperance are great at helping each other out, and our Community Investment Program is there to lend an extra hand,” Mr Wilks said.

To find out more about our Community Investment Program and to apply, visit https://www.southernports.com.au/corporate/community-investment-program