Commonwealth Bank is calling for community organisations, which support the health and wellbeing of Australian youth, to apply for a 2014 Community Grant. This year, a total of $2 million will be invested into local communities around Australia.

Since 2007 the Community Grants program, an annual initiative of the Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund, has awarded more than 900 grants totalling more than $7.6 million. Applications for 2014 Community Grants are now open and groups can apply for individual grants worth up to $10,000.

Commonwealth Bank General Manager of Community and Sustainability Trent Moy said, through the Community Grants program, current and retired Commonwealth Bank staff have helped fund a range of programs focused on the health and wellbeing of young Australians.

“We have been privileged to meet some of the country’s most dedicated and inspiring organisations, which we recognise are investing in local communities and helping young Australians in need,” said Mr Moy.

“This year, our people are delighted to have the opportunity to again support hundreds of community organisations, and we look forward to receiving applications,” he added.

Applications close at 5.00 pm AEDT on Friday 14 March 2014. To apply for a grant or for more information, visit commbank.com.au/grants

To be eligible for a 2014 Community Grant, organisations must have a program that supports the health and wellbeing of Australian youth, and be endorsed by the Australian Tax Office with deductible gift recipient (DGR) status or the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.

The Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund is Australia’s longest running employee contribution program and the Bank matches staff contributions dollar-for-dollar.

Editor’s note

A list of 2013 grant recipients can be found at commbank.com.au/grants.

About Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund

The Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund was formed in 1917 and is Australia’s longest running employee contribution program. Current and retired staff contribute to the Fund. All administrative costs for the Fund are met by the Bank, ensuring 100 per cent of funds raised go directly to children’s charities. The Commonwealth Bank matches contributions made by staff dollar-for-dollar. The Fund supports various causes that work with Australian children including the Community Grants program, Midnight Basketball and Clown Doctors.

About Commonwealth Bank in the community                                                                             

Commonwealth Bank has been actively supporting the Australian community since it opened its doors in 1912. Commonwealth Bank, together with its community partners and people, achieve social outcomes that enrich the communities in which it operates. Community support includes financial literacy through the Commonwealth Bank Foundation, the health and wellbeing of children through the Staff Community Fund, and programs in the arts, sport, welfare, Indigenous communities and the environment.