Older Australian’s are a vibrant part of our community. Now the Liberal and National Government is calling on sporting and community organisations to develop sporting programs targeted at the over 65s.

The Move It Aus – Better Ageing grants program has been launched today by Federal Sports Minister Bridget McKenzie, enabling national sporting organisations, along with non-government and local government organisations to apply for grants up to $2 million to deliver programs to Australians over 65.

Ross Vasta is encouraging all local organisations in Bonner to apply for funding for a national $22.9million program aimed at getting older Aussies active.

“We know Australia’s population is ageing and we know how important physical activity is to combat chronic disease and keep our seniors happier and healthier,” Ross Vasta said. “I encourage eligible organisations to build on existing programs or devise new initiatives that will improve the lives of older Australians in Bonner.

It’s so important for our older Aussies to be connected socially in our community and this is a great chance to either start some physical activity or continue to Move It.

“It might be anything from a swimming or aqua program group to organised sporting competition; the key is making sport and activity suitable to those over 65.

“Bayside United in Wynnum have lead the charge with its Walking Football competition aimed at getting older locals in the bayside active. I’m hopeful that this program will encourage more organisations to follow suit.

“The Liberal National Government wants older Australians to have the opportunities and sporting programs that young Australians have in abundance. This mean they are getting out of the house, being active and enjoying sport within their community.

“It’s not only about health and fitness, sport creates community and social cohesion that prevents older people feeling isolated. Studies have shown that older people actively pursue recreation and sport when they can access a program that suits their physical and mental needs,” Mr Vasta said.

The program will be managed by Sport Australia, the Australian Government’s leading agency for sport and physical activity.

Ross Vasta has encouraged students, researchers and professionals in Bonner to apply for a share of up to $119 million in funding as part of the Morrison Government’s new Endeavour Leadership Program.

Ross Vasta said applications for the program were now open.

“The program offers a once in a lifetime opportunity for students in Bonner to study or conduct research at leading institutions in Australia and around the world,” Ross Vasta said.

“Our economy depends on ensuring our students, academics and researchers become world leaders in their field – this investment will give them the skills to achieve that.

“Successful applicants will join more than 200 Endeavour recipients over the past four years who have lived and studied in Bonner.

“I encourage all eligible people in Bonner to apply for the program to expand their horizons and gain insights and skills to help them become the next generation of leaders.”

It is expected around 2,500 people will take part this year, with grants starting at $2,500.

The program is open to undergraduate, postgraduate and vocational education and training students, as well as higher education providers and registered training organisations.

It brings together the Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships and the Endeavour Mobility Grants.

For more information or to apply, visit the Department of Education and Training’s website at http://internationaleducation.gov.au/endeavour Applications close Thursday 15 November 2018.

Ross Vasta Federal Member for Bonner says not-for-profit organisations in the area can now apply for $5 million worth of grants to help migrants better integrate into Australian life.

The Commonwealth Government’s Fostering Integration Grant Program will support the delivery of one-off projects and new or expanded initiatives that encourage economic and social participation of new arrivals, including activities that promote employment and participation in the broader community.

Ross Vasta said the grants will help not-for-profit organisations deliver programs and activities that give migrants the best chance of succeeding in Australia.

“One of the things that make us uniquely Australian is the support we provide to one another. Our comradery and desire to ‘help our mates’ is something I see demonstrated by community groups and organisations not only in my electorate of Bonner but right across Australia.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman said the Government’s grants acknowledge the important role of community and not for profit groups.

“Activities may include anything from helping migrants to undertake valuable work experience in order to succeed in the workforce or opportunities to practice English in their local community to helping migrants better understand Australian values and civics.”

Not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants of between $10,000 and $50,000 for activities lasting up to 12 months. Applications close on 9 November 2018.

For more information and to apply for the Fostering Integration Grant Program,