Labor has a strong and proud record in delivering long-term mental health reform – a record I look forward to seeing continue under a Shorten Labor Government.

Expression of interest for the 2018 Volunteer Grants in now open. If you are a local service organisation or community group helping disadvantaged communities in Calwell, a Volunteer Grant can provide small amounts of money to support the volunteers. Grants between $1000 - $5000 are available to help non-for-profit community organisations or groups, to support their volunteers through practical measures. Apply and spread the word, as applications close on 18 September 2018. More program details and the application link can be found on this page.

It was such an honour to see 112 people make the pledge to become Australian at the Hume City Council's Citizenship Ceremony at Hume Global Learning Centre, Craigieburn last night. The candidates made the Australian citizenship pledge in front of their families, and loved ones as well as Mayor Cr Geoff Porter and Cr Drew Jessop.

Following the ceremony, all the new citizens stood and sang the Australian National Anthem before enjoying a light supper. 

Expressions of interest are open now for the fourth round of grants in the Stronger Communities Program. If you have a project that will increase community participation and contribute to the vibrancy and vitality of Calwell, a Stronger Communities grant could help make it a reality. Grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 are available for small capital works projects that meet the goals of the program and can show matched contributions (in cash or in kind) on at least a dollar for dollar basis. Spread the word. You'll get a sense of the scope of the program from the details below. A link to a more detailed overview of the program can be found at the end of this page.

I'm looking forward to supporting some great community building projects again in this round. Please get in touch with my office if you want to discuss the program in more detail.