Mental Health First Aid Scholarships
Supporting Local Businesses for a Mentally Healthy Community
The Rural City of Wangaratta’s Grit and Resilience Program, in partnership with Project 365, was proud to introduce the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Scholarship Program. This initiative empowered small and medium businesses across the region to build mentally healthy workplaces by equipping their staff with essential mental health support skills.
Why This Program Mattered
Mental health is a crucial factor in any thriving workplace. A supportive and understanding environment benefits both employees and businesses, leading to improved morale, reduced absenteeism, and a stronger, more connected workforce. Through this initiative, businesses across industries—including hospitality, manufacturing, education, transport, health, finance, and more—stepped up to create lasting change.
Program Impact
We were thrilled to receive applications from 26 diverse businesses across our community. Understanding the challenges small businesses face, especially in dedicating time for training, we were proud to announce that all 26 businesses received full funding to undertake mental health training in March 2025.
This had a significant impact, with 674 employees gaining access to trained mental health supporters within their workplaces. The benefits extended beyond offices, factories, and shopfronts—creating a ripple effect into families, sports clubs, and the wider community.
Real Stories, Real Change
One standout application came from Jack in the transport industry, who shared:
“As someone working in the Transport Industry, I dealt with truck drivers on a daily basis who spent days, weeks, and months on the road by themselves, isolated from their families. With mental health first aid training, I was better equipped to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, and provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for them to open up. In addition, this training allowed me to support my local football and netball club, where we previously had no mental health resources available.”
Jack’s story highlighted the incredible impact this program had—not only in workplaces but in everyday life. Through this initiative, we helped break down stigma, foster open conversations, and ensure that no one had to struggle alone.
Acknowledgments
This program would not have been possible without the generous support of Project 365 and the commitment of local businesses willing to invest in their employees' well-being.
We are proud of the positive changes that this training has brought to our community. Thank you to everyone involved in making this a reality!
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