Local sporting clubs and community groups could be up to $35,000 better off with the next round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) grants opening this week.

State Member for Morayfield, Mark Ryan MP, said more than 600 groups shared in $13.5 million worth of grants in the most recent round, including several organisations in the Morayfield State Electorate.

“I’m encouraging our dedicated local community groups to follow the lead of groups like the Burpengary Meals on Wheels – who received $35,000 in the last round – and fill out an application,” Mr Ryan said.

“This program helps local sporting clubs and community groups to fund all sorts of projects that might otherwise be out of their reach.”

Applications can be submitted for funding between a minimum of $500 (including GST) and a maximum of $35,000 (including GST) and the closing date is 31 August 2015.

Mr Ryan said the Gambling Community Benefit Fund was Queensland’s largest one-off grant program, distributing $52.5 million last year.

“In this round, the committee is particularly focused on funding community groups in need of facility upgrades and equipment. The committee will also be paying careful consideration to applicants who have not received a grant in the past two years or have been affected by natural disaster.

“For an organisation to be eligible, they must have not-for-profit objectives, be community-based and be registered with the Community Benefit Funds Unit as a legal entity or sponsored organisation.”

For further information, visit www.justice.qld.gov.au/grants.