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25.01.2022 Have you checked out the 2020-21 Veterans Grants? These one-off grants provide funding for innovative projects that promote veterans as valued members of the ACT community. Up to $10,000 per application is available, applications closing 5 pm, 30 October 2020.... For more info, and to apply for the Veterans Grant, visit: https://bit.ly/2020VeteransGrant

25.01.2022 The Supporting Children, Young People and their Families Package aims to help ease the pressure on carers, young people, children and their families and to provide targeted support and assistance. The package will provide one off payments to foster and kinship carers, assistance for young carers to help them meet additional expenses and maintain wellbeing and education, more funding for the Safe and Connected Youth Program and grants to non-government services providers. The ...package will provide one-off payments to foster and kinship carers, assistance for young carers to help them meet additional expenses and maintain wellbeing and education, more funding for the Safe and Connected Youth Program and grants to non-government services providers. Find out more about support available to you at: www.communityservices.act.gov.au//Community-Services-and-S

25.01.2022 Canberra's 2020 Young Citizen of the Year, Rose Clifford, shared a bit of background with us about herself and her journey up to this point. Rose is a beacon of light to those struggling with their mental health, spreading support and services through Mental Illness Education ACT (MIEACT) and Lifeline Canberra. "Research has shown that hearing lived experiences with mental health can increase the chances of help-seeking, particularly in youth."... Check out the video below to hear more about this young icon and learn why she chose to share her experience. Congratulations again Rose on your outstanding achievement! #YCCY #MentalHealth #FemaleLeader

24.01.2022 We could not be prouder of the organisations in the housing and homelessness services space! The ACT’s homelessness and housing services help to ensure all Canberrans, no matter what difficulties they’re facing, can be safe, healthy and feel a part of this community" Rebecca Vassarotti MLA - Member for Kurrajong, Minister for Homelessness and Housing Services.

24.01.2022 Read all about Canberra's 2020 Young Citizen of the Year, Rose Clifford, at the article below Canberra Weekly

24.01.2022 UPDATE: 2020's I-Day Grants deadline has been extended by one week, to Monday 28 September - that's just under 3 weeks to put in your application! I-Day unites people in the celebration and acknowledgement of the contributions, skills and achievements of people with disability. Individuals and organisations may apply for a grant up to $5,000 (GST exclusive) to be used for a project or initiative on or around the International Day of People with Disability, held on 3 Decembe...r annually. Find more information about I-Day Grants on the Community Services Directorate website, link in the post below.

24.01.2022 The Common Ground housing model supports people from homelessness into permanent housing and provides the support they need to stay housed. Gungahlin resident Greg shares how Common Ground has provided him with the stability to return to studying and work. www.communityservices.act.gov.au//vibrant,-inclusive-and-l... #HW2020 #EverybodyNeedsAHome See more

23.01.2022 Applications for the ACT Woman of the Year Awards close 5pm today There are many women in the ACT who make significant contributions to our community and to the lives of women and girls in Canberra. Nominate now across the three awards: ACT Woman of the Year ... ACT Senior Woman of the Year ACT Young Woman of the Year Applications close: 5pm Wednesday 10 February 2021 For more information and to apply online: www.bit.ly/WomensAwards2021 (Pictured) 2020 ACT Women of the Year, Ms Cindy Mitchell

23.01.2022 Do you have thoughts on the COVID-19 vaccine? ACT Health is asking Canberran's for their opinions through an online survey and giving away 10 $50 e-gift cards too! Your feedback will help support the rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine in the ACT helping to keep Canberra safe and strong. Complete the survey at yoursaypanel.act.gov.au/c/r/COVID-19vaccinesurvey... Survey closes 11:59pm Tuesday 9 February, individuals must be 16 years or older to complete the survey.

23.01.2022 Have you reached out to the Red Cross Wellbeing Call Service? Do you know someone who would benefit from a check-in and a chat? This service is especially beneficial for Canberrans who are: frail and aged have a disability... housebound recovering from an illness or accident "This [service] provides peace of mind if you are at risk of an accident or illness that may go unnoticed, such as falling and being unable to call for help. The volunteer will check to see that you are well and provide a friendly voice" - Australian Red Cross Canberrans can reach the Helpline on (02) 6234 7630 weekdays between 8am and 4pm, or register for a call online at: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//Community-Servic

22.01.2022 The #KnowYourNeighbour factsheets are now available in Easy English format! We have seen Canberrans come together with kindness and generosity to support those impacted by COVID 19, and are proud to have worked with Advocacy for Inclusion to widen the accessibility of our resources to support this. These resources host a range of ideas, strategies and resources encourage people to come together as individuals, neighbourhoods and communities, to support and look after each... other, particularly those who are in the most need of assistance. The Easy English versions are available through the shortened link https://bit.ly/KyN-Easy-English or https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//supporting-our-n #KyN #ConnectInCanberra #StrongerTogether

22.01.2022 On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we remember them. Remembrance Day, informally referred to as 'poppy day', is a day of memorial for those Australians that sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Although Remembrance Day is commemorated differently this year, Canberrans are encouraged to pause for a minute's silence today at 11:00 am and remember.

21.01.2022 Adama Konda, Canberra Islamic Centre's Imam, and ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs Chris Steel MLA share with us the importance of consideration during this year's Eid al-Adha celebrations. This #Eid, please remember to physically distance, and limit the number of people attending gatherings. "Remember if you feel unwell, don't visit anybody... and keep the physical distance of at least one and a half metres."... We wish Canberra's Muslim community an Eid full of blessings, generosity, and happiness.

21.01.2022 Stay strong Victoria! #StrongerTogether

20.01.2022 Are you aged between 12 to 25 years? Do you have ideas for projects, events or activities that focus on engaging young people in our community? Through the ACT Government’s Youth InterACT Grants program, grants of up to $2,000 are available for initiatives that actively engage young people, and connect young people with each other and to their community. Successful recipients of last year’s Youth InterACT Grants round included:... Narrabundah Pop-up Skate and Scoot project; School Community Garden and Composting Bioreactor project; and Portable Blue tooth Sound Box Creation project at Canberra High School. Applications for the Youth InterACT Grants close Monday 24 August 2020. To apply, visit https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/youth

20.01.2022 Initiatives such as the Winter Lodge are providing support for those in need with a safe, secure and warm place to live. Through the Winter Lodge, Argyle Housing works closely with other specialist homelessness providers to support men experiencing or at risk of homelessness into long term, safe and stable accommodation. Read more about the programs supporting Canberrans during COVID-19 at act.gov.au/homelessnessweek... #HW2020 #EverybodyNeedsAHome See more

19.01.2022 NAIDOC Week begins today and runs from 8-15 November. This year's theme, ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’ recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have occupied and cared for this land and sea for over 65,000 years. The ACT is proud to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. ... #NAIDOC2020 #AlwaysWasAlwaysWillBe See more

18.01.2022 Minister Suzanne Orr opened the launch of the Red Cross Wellbeing Call Service, a partnership between the Australian Red Cross - Emergency Services NSW & ACT and ACT Government. Red Cross volunteer Annette McManus spoke on the wonderful work this service will provide Canberrans. "I personally think it's extremely important. For some people its what they're watching on TV, others its what they're doing in their garden." Annette explained.... "I get just as much out of it as I put into it." Canberrans can reach the Helpline on (02) 6234 7630 weekdays between 8am and 4pm, or register for a call online at: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//Community-Servic

18.01.2022 NAIDOC week is a time to celebrate the history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Canberra region and right across our nation. Check out some of the beautiful landscapes and places of significance in this video shared by ACT's Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA #NAIDOC2020 #ACT #Community

18.01.2022 The 2020 ACT Disability Grants are now open! This includes the I-Day Grants and the Disability Inclusion Grants (the Chief Minister's Inclusion Awards will not be held in 2020 due to the current environment but will return in 2021). I-Day Grants 2020... I-Day is held annually on 3 December and the theme for 2020 ‘Not all Disabilities are Visible’ focuses on spreading awareness and understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent, such as Autism or a cognitive disability. Up to $5,000 available per application. For more information and to apply for I-Day grants: www.bit.ly/I-Day2020 Applications (extended): 28 September 2020 Disability Inclusion Grants (DIG) 2020 The Disability Inclusion Grant program aims to provide increased opportunities for people with disability to participate in mainstream community and or social groups. Up to $20,000 available per application. For more information and to apply for DIG grants: www.bit.ly/DIG-2020 Applications close: 19 October 2020 #Disability #ACT #Grants

18.01.2022 Get involved in this year’s Tenant Participation Grants If you’re a social housing tenant, you could be eligible to apply for up to $400 to enrol in a range of activities including digital and online courses. Visit act.gov.au/tpg for more information and to apply.

17.01.2022 Today marks the beginning of this year's 16 Days of Activism. Keep an eye on our socials over the coming weeks for a look into the services, and people, in the Canberra region committed to eliminating violence against women. We are proud to support this important campaign and invite you to do the same. #EndGBV #16DaysOfActivism #GenderEquality

17.01.2022 New jobs and financial support for young people in Canberra? Check Check out what the ACT Government is doing to support young people in Canberra.

17.01.2022 Lisa Kelly of Carers ACT and C Moore of Women with Disabilities ACT share with us an important message of looking out for your neighbour during COVID-19. The Know Your Neighbour Card card is a great way to take the first step in reaching out. Use this tool to break the ice and connect with those around you who might be feeling more isolated during this time. By keeping an eye out, checking in, and respecting the choices of our friends and neighbours who are self-isolating, we... can make sure the Canberra community stays connected. The Know Your Neighbour Card can be found under the 'Supporting our Neighbours and Communities' option on our Connect in Canberra page or at this link: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//supporting-our-n.

17.01.2022 Yesterday was the offical opening of Toolangi, a new Housing ACT development which consists of 33 affordable rentals and 32 public housing rentals. Thank you to everyone who attended the morning tea to officially open this wonderful project!

16.01.2022 The ACT Government is committed to partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans to improve the wellbeing of our First Peoples with the aspiration that all Canberrans can participate fully in the life of our city. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Organisations may apply for funding support of up to $25,000 under the NEO Support Program in 2020-21 to assist with the set-up costs including, but not limited to business or strategic planning and program de...sign. For more information and to apply: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//2020-21-new-and-

14.01.2022 Are you a social housing tenant who is interested in learning a new skill, meeting new people and getting involved in the community? Applications for the Tenant Participation Grants are now open and you could be eligible to apply for up to $400 to enrol in a range of activities including digital and online courses. Visit act.gov.au/tpg for more information and to apply.

14.01.2022 The West Belconnen Child and Family Centre is ready to welcome back Canberra families on Monday 1st February 2021. Since July 2020, the Centre has been used as a COVID-19 testing clinic and moved its programs and services online or to other locations. The Centre will be returning to business as usual and the team looks forward to getting back and delivering more programs and support to families in West Belconnen. The Centre will no longer be a COVID-19 testing clinic. Visit the COVID-19 website for other clinic locations. Find out more about WBCFC’s programs at http://bit.ly/WBCFC

14.01.2022 LIVE UPDATE on #COVID19 (18/11/2020). Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith and ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman are providing an update on the #COVID19 situation in the ACT. Stay up to date at: www.covid19.act.gov.au

13.01.2022 Congratulations to all the nominees and award recipients of last nights 2020 ACT Multicultural Awards #ACT #MulticulturalAwards The Awards program acknowledges outstanding contributions of individuals and organisation to promote multiculturalism in the ACT. Well done to this year's recipients in the following categories:... ACT Multicultural Individual Champion Award Commendation: Ms Yelin Hung Winner: Mrs Lieta Sauiluma-Duggan ACT Community Organisation (Multicultural Champion) Award Commendation: Born to Shine Commendation: ACT Council of Social Services and Carers ACT Winner: Quality Training in Construction ACT Outstanding Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion Commendation: Mr Zouheir Dalati Winner: Libraries ACT ACT Multicultural Art, Media or Culture Award Commendation: The Cubby House of Tales team, Canberra Youth Theatre Winner: Chinese Voice Program of CMS FM 91.1 And thank you to the Office for Multicultural Affairs, Canberra Institute of Technology - RTO 0101's student restaurant staff, and everyone who worked behind the scenes for the awards to make this year's awards come together.

13.01.2022 Happy Wear it Purple Day, Canberra! Show your support for our rainbow youth by wearing purple and acknowledging our diverse #LGBTIQ+ youth. #wearitpurpleday

12.01.2022 Carers are a vital part of keeping our community safe and connected. We are so thankful to Carers ACT and all ACT carers for their contribution.

12.01.2022 Are you aged between 12 to 25 years? Do you have ideas for projects, events or activities that focus on engaging young people in our community? Though the ACT Government’s Youth InterACT Grants program, grants of up to $2,000 are available for initiatives that actively engage young people, and connect young people with each other and to their community. ... Successful recipients of last year’s Youth InterACT Grants round included a Narrabundah Pop-up Skate and Scoot project; a School Community Garden and Composting Bioreactor project; and Portable Blue tooth Sound Box Creation project at Canberra High School. Applications for the Youth InterACT Grants close Monday 24 August 2020. To apply, visit https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/youth

11.01.2022 Thank you for your contribution to the Canberra community, Stasia. We are a more connected and friendly city having known you. Rest in Peace.

11.01.2022 A number of ACT Government websites, including communityservices.act.gov.au, act.gov.au and covid19.act.gov.au, are currently experiencing technical difficulties. We apologise for the inconvenience. We are working hard to resolve the issue. For general enquiries or advice on COVID-19 in the ACT, you can call the COVID-19 helpline on (02) 6207 7244 from 8am-8pm daily, or the national 24-hour Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080.... For other ACT Government enquiries, you can call Access Canberra on 13 22 81.

09.01.2022 Need funding for your local community project? Apply for the new Community Connection Grant! The ACT Government is looking to fund a number of projects with small, one-off funding to maintain or increase community involvement. How much is available? A total of $30,000 is available to fund a number of projects that support Canberrans to build and maintain community connections. ... Who can apply? - Individuals - Local groups - Community-based groups Where can I get advice? A number of community organisations are available for advice, including Capital Region Community Services, Communities at Work, Woden Community Service and more, plus CSD's Connect In Canberra team are available for info on permits, marketing and more! For more information and to apply, visit: www.communityservices.act.gov.au//2020-21-community-connec

09.01.2022 Nominations are now open for the 2021 Young Canberra Citizen of the Year (YCCY) Awards! The YCCY celebrates young people aged 12 to 25 years in our community who have made a significant personal contribution, or who have actively been involved in the ACT community. This year, nominations can be made in seven categories: Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Award... Young Achiever Award Individual Community Service Award Environmental and Sustainability Award Personal Achievement Award Art and Multimedia Award Group Achievement Award Winners will be announced at an event to mark ACT Youth Week celebrations, 22 March 2021 to 1 April 2021. Nominations close on Monday 1 March 2021. To nominate, visit http://bit.ly/YCCY2021

08.01.2022 This Homelessness Week we’re acknowledging the collaborative work between ACT Government and the specialist homelessness sector. Programs such as the Axial Housing First program are making a different to the lives of many take a moment to watch Dave’s story: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//a-man,-his-dog-a #HW2020 #EverybodyNeedsAHome

08.01.2022 Thanks to everyone who came along yesterday to turn the first sod at Common Ground Dickson. Another milestone reached for a housing project that provides: safe and affordable housing, and wrap around supports for Canberrans experiencing homelessness

08.01.2022 Casual and part-time workers have been among the hardest hit during #COVID19. To help Canberrans through the current health crisis, the ACT Government has created a Hardship Fund to support locals who are temporarily unable to work as a result of isolating. The Hardship Isolation Payments will help employees take the required time off to ensure they are healthy and do not unintentionally spread #COVID19 in the community. ... Workers will be eligible payments of up to $1,500 depending on an individual’s circumstances (such as available sick leave through their employer). For further information on eligibility and how to apply, please visit https://www.covid19.act.gov.au//e/families-and-households

08.01.2022 Here's a weekend de-stress activity we've all come to love - colouring in! This year’s NAIDOC poster, by competition winner Tyrown Waigana, has been turned into an all-ages-friendly colouring-in sheet. His artwork depicts the Rainbow Serpent coming out of the Dreamtime to create this land. Follow the links below to find out more about this emerging artist and to download a copy of the 2020 NAIDOC Poster and colouring sheet.... NAIDOC colouring in: https://www.naidoc.org.au//2020-naidoc-poster-colouring-in NAIDOC poster: https://www.naidoc.org.au/resources/get-your-poster

07.01.2022 Today Minister for Veterans and Seniors Gordon Ramsay MLA and Andrew Barr ACT Chief Minister held a commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Victory in the Pacific and the end of World War Two. Minister Ramsay shared, 'It’s important we pause, reflect and remember. To share stories and memories. To acknowledge our history.' We remember the brave men and women who served their countries - we thank you.

07.01.2022 CLOSING SOON! Are you a social housing tenant? Don’t forget that applications for the Tenant Participation Grants program close Monday 14 September at 5pm. For more info and to apply visit act.gov.au/tpg #Tenant #Housing #Grant #ACT #Canberra

06.01.2022 Have you applied for the second Seniors Grant round for 2020-21? Up to $10,000 per application is available for projects and activities that will support Older Canberrans during this uncertain time. Head on over to: www.communityservices.act.gov.au/grants for info on last year's recipients, guidelines and online allocation form.... Applications close 5pm 30 October 2020.

06.01.2022 It's not only the history of First Nations people, it's everybody's history. During NAIDOC week we celebrate the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. "It's a call for eveyone on their country to embrace what the First Nations history is." Jo Chivers, Deputy Chairperson of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.... Thanks to Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA and Jo Chivers for this valuable message. #AlwaysWasAlwaysWillBe #NAIDOC2020

04.01.2022 Read Veronika and Julijana’s story on how receiving a grant in last year’s Tenant Participation program helped them meet new people, learn new skills and get involved in the community You go girls! There are just under four weeks until applications for the Tenant Participation Grants close until next year, so check them out: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au//a-sense-of-belon

03.01.2022 Today is a time for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and all Canberrans, to celebrate the strengths and culture of our First Nation's children. Follow the link below for further reading and resources

03.01.2022 Yesterday Emma Davidson MLA - Member for Murrumbidgee, Assistant Minister for Families and Community Services, officially opened the Hughes Community Shed. The new community shed is part of the broader Australian Men's Shed Association, addressing health and wellbeing through the sharing of knowledge and practical skills. A multitude of tools for DIY and hobby projects are now available to the public, as well as a wealth of knowledge from the shed's own members.... Taking on-board community feedback, the Hughes shed invites all people to participate, regardless of gender - the first such shed to do this in the ACT. Council on the Ageing ACT CEO Jenny Mobbs proudly celebrated over three years worth of work coming to fruition today, with the shed expected to be running at full capacity early next year. For more information about the Hughes Community Shed and how you can get involved, contact COTA ACT at 02 6282 3777, [email protected] or drop by the office.

02.01.2022 The 2020 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander grants are now open! This includes the: Cultural Grants Scholarship Grants... Leadership Grants The grants aim to strengthen community leadership, empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to engage in life-long learning and support the delivery of programs and events which celebrate and strengthen culture in the ACT community. These three grants all close at 5pm, 15 February 2021. For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/atsia/recipients

02.01.2022 Do you know how to organise a Welcome to Country? Our Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders can help! Organising a Welcome to Country for your event or gathering shows respect for the traditional custodians of a particular region or area. For more information and help visit: www.communityservices.act.gov.au/atsia/welcome_to_country