Released 30/10/2018
Applications are now open for the latest round of Healthy Canberra Grants, with a particular focus on reducing alcohol-related harm and preventing diabetes.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris today urged eligible community groups, not-for-profit organisations and schools to apply, with $2.7 million in grants available.
“We want to invest in initiatives that help keep Canberrans healthy,” Minister Fitzharris said.
“These grants aim to reduce the risk of chronic disease, which can really impact a person’s quality of life and be a major contributor to the demands and costs on our health system.”
This round, grants will be offered for initiatives that help to shift the culture around drinking.
“Alcohol consumption remains a concern for Canberrans, with some groups drinking at levels that put them at risk of ill-health and harm in the short and long term.
“Alcohol accounts for 4.2 per cent of the total burden of disease in the ACT making it the fourth-highest risk factor leading to ill-health. Anything that improves this situation is a good idea.”
With a growing number of people in the ACT affected by diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, the grants also aim to attract proposals that encourage people to think about and achieve healthier lifestyles, which can reduce the likelihood of developing diabetes and/or its impact on people’s lives.
“Unfortunately, Type 2 diabetes is increasingly being seen in younger people who will often develop additional chronic diseases like heart disease and kidney disease due to lifestyle factors. We want to help reverse this trend. There is also a worrying increase in gestational diabetes that can have a significant impact on women and their babies.
“I strongly encourage all eligible organisations to check out the ACT Health Directorate website for further information on the grants,” Minister Fitzharris said.
Applications for both funding opportunities close on Friday 7 December 2018.
For more information including the application forms and funding guidelines visit: www.health.act.gov.au/hpgrants
- Statement ends -
Meegan Fitzharris, MLA | Media Releases
Media Contacts
| Name | Phone | Mobile | |
|---|---|---|---|
Claire Johnston |
(02) 6205 0022 |
0452 597 459 |