One-off grants between $10,000 and $50,000 are available to not-for-profit organisations and local councils for youth-led and youth-driven community projects.

Last year’s grant recipients included event management training to support community events, a youth-inspired music and performance event, a domestic violence education program aimed at high schoolers, a youth leadership program, workshops to equip young people with life skills, establishment of a youth council, training in cooking and healthy eating, a spoken word poetry initiative and even a stage production.

“Grants provided to local organisations will help young people to participate, engage and be included in our community,” Mr George said.

“Giving young people an opportunity to be part of youth-driven projects will not only help them develop individually, but it will help strengthen the community as a whole.”

Minister responsible for Youth, Ray Williams said in this year’s funding round there will be an additional $400,000 available to benefit more young people.  

“I’m proud of the additional funding that will go a long way to support our young people reach their potential,” Mr Williams said.

“Projects previously selected aim to upskill young people to provide them with greater opportunities for employment in a number of sectors, including hospitality, events planning or media.”

Since the program was launched in 2012, Youth Opportunities has provided $9 million in funding to 177 projects across NSW. 

Applications for grants under this year’s program close on Monday, July 16. To apply or to find further information about the program go to youth.nsw.gov.au/youth-opportunities.