Carolyn Male MP, State Member for Pine Rivers and Mary-Anne O’Neill MP, State Member for Kallangur would like to make people aware that nominations for grants promoting the importance of adult education and life-long learning are now open in the lead-up to Adult Learners’ Week from September 1 to 8.

Carolyn Male MP said the grants program encouraged people to take part in adult education and to enjoy learning throughout their lives, while helping to address skills shortages.

“Grants of $1500 for a single organisation or community group, and $5000 for joint applications from community organisations and groups, are available for Adult Learners’ Week activities,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“These could include awards, workshops, open days and marketing events to attract new adult learners to courses and facilities.”

“Through the grants program, funding is offered to communities to celebrate the week and promote life-long learning opportunities across Queensland,” Mary-Anne O’Neill MP said.

“Adult education builds essential life skills such as literacy and numeracy, boosts employment prospects and lifts confidence.”

“It also complements the Bligh Government’s education and training programs.”

Both MP’s stated that adult education would help Queensland reach its Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland target of having three out of four Queenslanders with trade, training or tertiary qualifications by 2020.

“Unless we boost our innovation and skill levels we will be left behind in the global race for new knowledge and that all-important competitive edge,” Mary-Anne O’Neill MP said.

“We encourage all Queenslanders to continue learning and expanding their skills throughout their working life to help meet changing skills needs.”

Grant nominations close on June 10. Application packs are available through the Adult Learners’ Week website or by phoning (07) 3222 2723.

For more information about Adult Learners’ Week visit www.education.qld.gov.au/community/events/alw/.