Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said Billabong Clubhouse Inc, which assists people living with mental illness, will receive $13,000 to refurbish clubhouse amenities. Oxley Community Transport Service will receive a further $13,000 to fit out a training and activities room.

"These local organisations provide an invaluable service to some of the most vulnerable members of our community," Mr Joyce said.

"Anything we can do support the work of these groups will be of great benefit and one I'm honoured to have played a part in."

Also to receive grants in the region were Barraba Bowling Club ($10,000) for the purchase of a mower and roller and The Unholy's Inc Women's Shed, Quirindi ($5,780) to purchase new communal tools for use by its members.

The grants form part of the $22.65 million Round 6 of the Stronger Communities Program where up to $150,000 was made available for all 151 federal electorates across the country, including the New England. Organisations were eligible for grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 for small capital projects that deliver social benefits for local communities.

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For this funding round, grants will cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs as a special provision to support Australia's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

An additional $28.2 million was provided in the 2021-22 Budget to extend the Stronger Communities Programme to a seventh round of the program.

"It is important that we fund not only the big money projects in the New England but the smaller ones too because they are the ones that keep our communities connected," Mr Joyce said.

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