The ACT Government’s 2023-24 Seniors Grant program provides $80,000 for innovative projects that support the wellbeing of older Canberrans or improve their connection to and participation in the community life. Applications close in October.

“The Seniors Grants are an important avenue for supporting the diverse needs of our city’s senior population,” Emma Davidson, ACT Minister for Seniors and Veterans, said.

“I encourage all those who have great ideas both big and small to put their proposals forward.

“We particularly encourage applications addressing elder abuse, social inclusion, and the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders and culturally and linguistically diverse seniors.”

Last year, successful grant recipients included:

·          Bangladeshi Seniors Club to address social inclusion and active participation of Bangladesh born seniors as valued members of the Canberra community.

·          Embraced Inc supported 10 emerging teenage artists to paint portraits of people over the age of 100. This activity culminated in an art exhibition.  

“Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the ACT Seniors Grant, which played a pivotal role in making our intergenerational arts program a reality,” Rose Connors Dance, creative director at Embraced Inc, said. “Through this grant, we were able to pay tribute to, celebrate, and showcase the exceptional ACT super-seniors, fostering a space for the blossoming of cross-generational friendships, mutual learning, and invaluable exchanges.”

·          Good Omen Goodeze ran a weekly program of knitting and crocheting at Northside Community Services.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/seniors/grants/2023-24-act-seniors-grant-guidelines

Applications close at 3pm Tuesday 10 October.