The grant is part of the Westpac Foundation, providing funding to over $1 million to 100 regional organisations that provide employment, education, and training support for some of Australia's most vulnerable.

Cloncurry MultiSkill Centre is the umbrella organisation for a number of social enterprises, such as RedDoor Training Café, which supports local youth and Indigenous Australians who are experiencing barriers to employment and education in the Cloncurry and Mount Isa region.

MultiSkill Centre Programs Manager Paul Bashford said RedDoor would benefit hugely from the Westpac Foundation Rural Community Grant.

"The additional funds will allow us to increase our capacity to provide hospitality education and training opportunities and will allow us to employ more young people in a safe employment place," Mr Bashford said.

Westpac Foundation Chief Executive Officer Susan Bannigan said the rural grants had been designed to provide assistance for those in rural areas who had faced a particularly challenging year.

"Supporting organisations focused on employment, education and training is at the heart of our strategy, and by partnering with FRRR, this has enabled us to leverage their expertise in rural, regional and remote areas and extend our reach to help these communities in need," Ms Bannigan said.

The grants are partnered with Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal, with Chief Executive Officer Natalie Egleton saying rural and regional communities play a vital role in Australia's prosperity and vibrancy.

"They are facing continuing challenges to growth and development - from drought, to bushfires, to floods, and now COVID-19. Targeted financial support for education, training and employment pathways is critical during these times, particularly for vulnerable groups," Ms Egleton said.

"Through the Rural Community Grants program, FRRR and Westpac Foundation are proud to back local groups to improve the opportunities within their communities so they can continue to prosper."

In addition to funding, all grant recipients receive pro bono support and access to leadership development programs, legal support, and financial capability training via Westpac's Changemaker program.

"While access to funds is incredibly important, the collaborative support we also offer through our program partners, like access to expert skills and resources, has become integral in driving these deeper relationships with our grant recipients," Ms Bannigan said.

READ MORE: Mount Isa City Council to start rolling out smart water meters.

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