A MILLION DOLLARS AND MORE FOR YOUTH PROJECTS

Community organisations and local councils can now apply for one off grants from a $1.5 million NSW Liberals and Nationals Government fund focusing on projects promoting youth engagement.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the Youth Opportunities Program provides funding for new youth-driven projects that support participation and inclusion in the community.

"Youth Opportunities provides a platform for young people to engage with our community, socialise and gain new skills," Mr Ward said.

"The NSW Government will provide grants of between $10,000 and $50,000 for projects that remove barriers preventing young people from participating more in their community, helping them socialise and gain new skills."

Since the program was established in 2012, the Government has invested $10.4 million in projects across the state.

Last year, 34 projects received funding including 11 in rural and regional areas.

Phoenix House Youth Services received funding in the last round, allowing it to establish new youth-led cooking and food waste workshops.

CEO of Phoenix House Youth Services Edmund D'Cruz said the program created a wealth of opportunities for participants.

"Not only did the young participants learn vital cooking and life skills, but they developed the confidence to create a new coffee cart social enterprise," Mr D'Cruz said.