Tuesday, 20 September 2022

 Mr MAAS (Narre Warren South) (19:13): (6541) The adjournment matter I wish to raise is for the attention of the Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers and concerns the Emerging Stronger grants program. The action I seek is that the minister provide further information on how the Emerging Stronger grants will support volunteers in my electorate of Narre Warren South. Our government recognises the importance of volunteers and the contributions that they make in sustaining and binding the fabric of our community. Volunteers build stronger, more resilient and inclusive communities and are vital to the delivery of everything from essential services through to grassroots sport.

Before the pandemic there were some 2.3 million Victorians, or 42.1 per cent, who volunteered. They were a really vital part of our community, especially, as I said, during the pandemic period, but now still have an important role to play. This work includes delivering many of our community’s functions, including the delivery of food, multicultural support, community radio, sporting clubs administration, elderly engagement and helping victims of domestic violence, and of course the list does seem to go on. To that end I would appreciate any further information that the minister could provide on how the Emerging Stronger grants will support volunteers in my electorate, and I look forward to sharing the minister’s response with my community.