$840,000 investment to keep seniors socially connected

Applications for the grant program open today with organisations including local councils, multicultural groups and Aboriginal-led organisations encouraged to apply for 28 grants worth $30,000 each.

The grants fund locally-driven projects, programs and activities which foster inclusion for seniors, from social gatherings to salsa dancing lessons and song clubs.

The grant program is divided into five categories:

Aboriginal Grants: Four grants for Aboriginal-led organisations or Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations for initiatives targeted for Aboriginal communities

Multicultural Grants: Four grants for multicultural organisations for initiatives aimed at Culturally and Linguistically Diverse groups

Creation Grants: Six grants for new projects

Enhancement or Expansion Grants: Six grants to boost existing projects

Local Council Grants: Eight grants specifically for council-led projects.

The multicultural and Aboriginal category are new this year with the aim of reaching a more diverse range of older people. There is also an increased emphasis on intergenerational projects to foster social connections between older and younger people. This approach is vital for combating ageism, promoting inclusion, sharing experiences, and breaking down stereotypes.

Since its launch in 2020, the grant program has funded more than 120 projects over 30,000 seniors across 82 Local Government Areas across NSW.

The grant program helps deliver on the NSW Government's commitment in the Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021-2031 to promote inclusion for older people.

Applications for the grant program close on 21 October 2024. Find out more and apply at https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/service-providers/grants/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.html

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

"Whether it's dancing lessons or digital literacy, bush walking or simply talking, the Connecting Seniors Grant Program funds something for every interest.

"These projects can provide a social lifeline for seniors who often live alone and ensures older people stay connected and age well."

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

"This program will help ensure our seniors are able to continue to stay active, connected and healthy.

"I am especially pleased with the grants available for Aboriginal communities where elders are revered.

"We know there are better outcomes for communities when Aboriginal organisations lead and implement Closing the Gap initiatives."

2024 grant recipient, Touched By Olivia Foundation founder John Perkins said:

"The Connecting Seniors Grant we received for our program has helped connect over 100 seniors in lasting social connections, across a range of diverse demographics within the LGA of City of Canada Bay.

"We have seen many people, who had not been out of their house for several months, now with a rich network of social activities which are occurring several times each week."

2024 grant recipient, NSW Spanish and Latin American Association Manager Carlos Encina said:

"The Connecting Seniors Grant Program provides more opportunities to break social isolation among older people and provide activities where they can connect with the community. The program has a great impact with seniors."

Related ministerial media releases