Grants of up to $20,000 each have been made available for not-for-profit organisations that are advancing community initiatives and empowering an engaged society.

Sutherland Shire Council created a program to support local residents and empower the community by funding a range of projects that contribute to a caring and inclusive public. The council said the grant will allow government to support charities.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce, said: “I am so proud that through this program we can support so many local groups who help people right across our community, from seniors support groups to youth services, musical societies, art groups and disability support groups.”

Last year, grants were allocated to 39 community-based organisations that were used to fund 43 projects designed to build a sense of community, improve health and well-being and strengthen connections through shared cultural experiences.

Projects that focus on seniors, young people, disability, cultural and linguistic diversity, indigenous communities and children and family will be prioritised.

2018 recipient, Skillz4me Inc., received a grant for their innovative program which combined sports, fun and therapy to achieve outcomes for children on the Autism Spectrum or with additional needs. The session focuses on building confidence, social skills, coordination and balance by stimulating neural pathways and concentration.

A cultural community also received a grant, providing members with music education so they could continue entertaining the community.

Endeavour Harmony Chorus, Lyndel Short, said: “I consider myself very fortunate to belong to an organisation that puts such a lot of emphasis on education and continual improvement and it has been really exciting to have the opportunity to hear from some of the world’s best exponents of the barbershop style and work with them on skills.”

Applications open Monday 4 March 2019 and eligible organisations can submit up to two applications, each for a maximum of $20,000.