Community organisations across rural and farming regions are being invited to apply for new funding aimed at strengthening local responses to mental health challenges, particularly where access to services is limited.
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has opened applications for its In a Good Place (IAGP) program, offering grants of up to $20,000 for community-led initiatives that support the mental health and wellbeing of farmers and people living in remote, rural and regional areas.
A total funding pool of $200,000 is available to support projects delivered by community groups and not-for-profit organisations, with a focus on education, connection and non-clinical mental health support.
FRRR Head of Granting Jill Karena said people living in rural and remote areas can face additional barriers when seeking help.
“There are so many great things about living life on the land, but limited access to information, resources and services, as well as the geographical isolation, can make it particularly difficult to look after your mental health,” Karena said.
She said local organisations play a critical role in supporting wellbeing, particularly in farming communities.
“This is one of the reasons why community groups are so important to the vitality of remote, rural and regional Australia. Because they are on the ground in these communities and out talking to farmers, running wellbeing programs and filling the gaps in mental health services.
“Mental health is a whole-of-community concern. This funding enables NFPs to provide locals with resources and opportunities to connect, develop skills, increase understanding and reduce stigma. They can also use the grants to create safe spaces where people can have honest conversations and be heard.”
Funding is available across two streams: one focused on general community wellbeing in remote, rural and regional areas, and another specifically supporting farmers and farming communities.
Previous grants have supported a range of grassroots initiatives, including mental health first aid training for volunteers, community events designed to reduce isolation, guest speakers sharing lived experience, and the creation of safe spaces where people can talk openly with trained peer volunteers.
“Together with our funding partners, we look forward to being inspired by the project ideas put forward by NFPs and community groups who are out on the ground, proactively supporting the mental health and wellbeing of their local community,” Karena said.
Applications close at 5pm AEDT on 19 February, with successful projects to be announced in late June.
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