National Golden Gurus program gets funding boost
The National Golden Gurus program is set for a $500,000 funding boost to kick start its important work, connecting mature aged volunteers with mentoring opportunities as part of the Australian Government’s Productive Ageing Package.
Organisations that deliver the program will be able to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to help them prepare mature age mentors for their voluntary mentoring roles.
“Transferring the valuable skills and experience of mature age workers to younger workers is a key objective of the Productive Ageing Package.
“The national Golden Gurus program is a great way to harness the experience of older Australians by helping to transfer their valuable skills to younger workers,” Treasurer Wayne Swan said.
“By helping to retain these skills in the Australian workforce, the Golden Gurus program will help boost productivity and meet the challenges presented by our ageing population,” Mr Swan said.
The program was an initiative of the 2020 Summit and was officially launched by the Parliamentary Secretary for the Voluntary Sector, Senator Stephens, in December last year and commenced on 1 January this year.
“Golden Gurus is a fantastic program that brings together a diverse range of quality organisations which link the experience and expertise of mature age mentors with start-up businesses and community organisations,” Senator Stephens said.
“This funding will enable these organisations to extend their reach and ensure mentors have the support they need to focus their full attention on sharing their wisdom and knowledge,” Senator Stephens said.
Prospective mentors can register their interest at the Golden Gurus website (click here) and, once approved, will be able to participate in an online forum to meet with other mentors and discuss the program.
Information on how organisations can apply for the Golden Gurus funding grants will be available soon from the Golden Gurus website.
