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RIO CASH TO SUPPORT GROUPS

Catherine MasseyBusselton Dunsborough Times
Local community groups and not-for-profit organisations will benefit greatly from Rio Tinto's funding commitment. Photo: Catherine Massey
Camera IconLocal community groups and not-for-profit organisations will benefit greatly from Rio Tinto's funding commitment. Photo: Catherine Massey Credit: Picture: Catherine Massey

Rio Tinto has committed $45,000 to increase the City of Busselton’s Community Assistance Program funding pool to $308,000.

The funding is designed to help community groups and not-for-profit organisations who have been impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.

Rio Tinto has also provided $5000 for surveillance upgrades at the Communicare Women’s Refuge and $5000 to continue food relief services in Busselton and Dunsborough started by the City of Busselton during the height of the restrictions.

City of Busselton acting mayor Kelly Hick said it made good sense to redirect these funds to where the need was greatest.

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“Our community and sporting groups are the backbone of our community and many are suffering financial hardship as a result of forced closures,” she said.

Rio Tinto superintendent of community engagement and relations Justin Francesconi said the mining company was happy to help fast-track the recovery of not-for-profit groups in Busselton.

“The City of Busselton community has played an important part in keeping the State’s resource sector viable during COVID-19 and we applaud the efforts of businesses, individuals and families,” he said.

Community Assistance Funding Grants are available to help community groups meet costs such as rent, insurance, public liability, utilities, administration support and infrastructure projects.

Applications will be open for the 2020-21 financial year or until all funds are allocated.

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