Bonner’s local Men’s Sheds can now apply for funding as part of the latest round of the National Men’s Shed Development Program (NSDP), with priority given on applications with a strong focus on health, wellbeing and safety.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said in acknowledgement of the impact COVID-19 has had on the community, the grants would be used to help local Men’s Shed groups during their recovery and help facilitate increased connectivity amongst shedders.

“I strongly encourage the Men’s Shed groups in Bonner to apply for this grant to support the great work they already do,” Mr Vasta said.

“Now more than ever, Men’s Sheds offer men a critical avenue for social support and engagement. They have become a focal point for the Bonner community and encourage men to stay healthy, socialise and do regular activities in good company.

“This funding can help our Sheds deliver programs with a strong health, wellbeing or safety focus and I urge all local Sheds to apply.”

Men’s Sheds can apply for financial support across the following funding categories:

• Category 1: Health, Wellbeing, and Events $8,000 maximum
• Category 2: Shed Improvements $8,000 maximum
• Category 3: Equipment $5,000 maximum

Minister for Health Greg Hunt MP said Men’s Sheds were vital in providing a safe space for men to talk and work on meaningful projects.

“This new funding round will provide financial support to assist in both setting up and maintaining Men’s Sheds across Australia,” Minister Hunt said

Since 2013, the Coalition Government has provided $5.4 million to support Men’s Sheds across Australia.

Applications for the current funding round close Friday 27 November. For more information, visit https://mensshed.org

The Morrison Government’s Job-ready Graduates legislation has passed the Senate which means from next year there will be more university places, and study subjects in areas of expected job growth will now be cheaper.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said for year 12 students currently completing their final exams, it was positive news to know they had more opportunities with more university spaces available to continue their education.

“This legislation will create up to 30,000 additional university laces for Australian students next year, when combined with the 12,000 places announced in the 2020 Budget,” Mr Vasta said.

“People wanting to undertake further study can also take advantage of the extra 50,000 short course places in 2021, to learn new skills in national priority areas like mental health, engineering and mathematics.

“In the Budget the Morrison Government announced a $51 billion investment in education, including $550.3 million for additional university places and short courses.”

Mr Vasta said because of that investment, more Australians would get the opportunity to study for a university degree and more Australians would benefit from cheaper fees in areas of expected job demand.

“Australia’s economic recovery will be built on our strengths, and that includes a highly skilled workforce,” Mr Vasta said.

“Our plan will also establish a $900 million National Priorities and Industry Linkage Fund to better align the university sector, with local businesses to encourage job placements, formal research partnerships and advanced apprenticeships and internships.

“To support women in STEM, our Government is providing $22.1 million for universities and employers to provide advanced qualifications and industry cadetships for women in science, technology, engineering and maths.

“Getting on-the-job training as part of a degree is invaluable and leads to better job outcomes after university.”