April 9, 2018
ABC Heywire is calling on community organisations in regional Australia to implement ideas developed at the 2018 Heywire Regional Youth Summit by applying for seed-funding through the Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal (FRRR).
In February, a think-tank of young people from every corner of Australia drew on their own experiences to devise seven ideas aimed at making regional Australia an even better place to grow up.
They discussed issues including beating drug addiction, access to health care and supporting Indigenous culture.
The seven final ideas are:
- C2C Connecting to Culture – bringing generations together to celebrate Indigenous culture
- Bridging AgriCulture – connecting new Australians with agriculture
- HOPE – making schools a place where it’s ok to talk about mental health
- Taking Control – teaching young people the difference between a healthy relationship and an unhealthy one
- Yeah the Boys – supporting boys to stay away from drugs
- MediFriends – bringing medical professionals and their communities together
- Step Up – inspiring disengaged young people to take the first step on their journey to success
FRRR and its partners are offering $100,000 in grants to organisations interested in implementing these projects.
Heywire participant Nia Harrison, from Horsham in Victoria, encouraged communities to adopt one of the ideas that she and her peers have developed, and put it in to action.
“Our week at the Heywire Summit changed our lives, but these ideas can change much more. We want others, living in rural or regional Australia, to experience something life changing, too,” she said.
The Youth Innovation Grants, now in their sixth year, have led to more than 70 youth-developed projects in 140 communities nationwide through $1.2 million in community and philanthropic investment.
ABC Managing Director Michelle Guthrie said the grants program would provide long-term benefits for youth in regional Australia.
“A recent impact study by ANU found that Heywire has a lasting impact on young people and their communities in regional Australia,” she said.
“Not only does it give them a voice on the ABC, but the chance to make a measurable difference.”
Community organisations have until May 14 to apply.
