The Morrison Government will provide a funding injection for 16 local community groups and organisations in Barker to support the work of local volunteers.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the funding would go a long way to support local organisations in Barker and their volunteers through what has been a tough year.

“This summer, on the back of a prolonged drought, our nation battled bushfires the equivalent of any experienced in our lifetimes. While the extent of these natural disasters were catastrophic one thing remained unwavering; the role of our volunteers who were there in the line of duty,” Mr Pasin said.

“Volunteers freely give their time and skills to support others and will play a key role in communities over the next few months as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding recognises the sacrifices they make to help deliver vital services to those who need it most.”

“While the work of our volunteers may be unpaid it is certainly not unrecognised. From fighting bushfires, delivering food to vulnerable Australians in isolation and helping out with the weekend sport, they are all local champions.”

“Their contribution is vital to ensuring that we continue to support families, provide employment pathways for young people and strengthen community resilience.”

Mr Pasin said the funding injection coincides with National Volunteer Week being celebrated this week.

“It’s vital we acknowledge the important contribution of our local volunteers in our local communities

Nationally, volunteering has an estimated annual economic and social contribution of $290 billion.

The awarded grants are between $1,000 and $5,000. National Volunteer Week runs from 18-24 May.

“It’s a small way we can say thank you to our volunteers for what they do,” Mr Pasin said.

Within Barker 16 local organisations will share in over $65,000.