The Labor Government is backing the skills and creativity of young people across the state through two grant programs designed to inspire the next generation of leaders.  

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced that The Salvation Army would be one of the 134 recipients of the Engage! and FReeZA grant programs for 2025-2027, funding activities for young Victorians aged 12 to 25.  

The Salvos received $135,000 for its Leadership and Life Skills program which will take in referrals from Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. 

The Salvos will hold Youth Advisory Group meetings, where young people will be able to participate in community advocacy, as well as programs targeted for girls, moving out of home, mural projects, and youth engagement events. 

Engage! grants, which range from $60,000 to $180,000, and FReeZA grants, which provide $45,000 to $120,000, are three-year funding streams that support community organisations, local governments, and social enterprises.  

For more information on the programs visit vic.gov.au/engage-2025-2027 and vic.gov.au/freeza-2025-27.  

Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman  

“FReeZA and Engage! empower Victoria’s young people to shape their communities, find their voices and unlock their potential.”  

“These grants will ensure that young people have the support and resources they need to thrive and contribute to our state into the future.”  

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh  

“Investing in our youth is good for kids, good for communities, and good for the future – I wish all young people in the Salvos program every success with this initiative.” 

Quote attributable to Salvos Youth Services State Manager James Aloni 

“The Engage! project is an exciting initiative that will empower young people across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula to co-design and deliver programs that build leadership skills, resilience, and learn important life skills such as budgeting and employment readiness.” 

“These programs will foster a sense of pride and belonging, creating stronger and more connected communities. The Salvation Army would like to thank the Victorian Government for their commitment in providing opportunities for young people to thrive and reach their full potential.”