Subscribers might like to know that the Commonwealth Foundation's Open Grants Call is now accepting applications. The organisation is especially interested to receive applications from organisations in eligible small and vulnerable states. Eligible organisations can apply for a grant worth between £15,000-£30,000 per year for projects that lead to meaningful and constructive engagement between civil society and government. More details can be found at this link.

As the debate of the proposal for the inclusion of the Voice into the Australian Constitution has advanced, the dignity and grace of so many indigenous leaders who advocate for their people to be heard has been in striking contrast with the negativity of those who campaign for the ‘No’ vote. This is not a surprise. Indigenous leaders have learned and earned these qualities through many long and difficult years of leading their people towards the preparation of the Uluru Statement. The Uluru Statement from the Heart is a simple yet eloquent document which emerged itself from three years, and so many more, of intense consultation and exchange in indigenous communities across the nation. The depth of engagement and the confidence that this reflects offers encouragement and conviction to many of us to believe that this is the moment for change.

Our close friends and colleagues, Rajesh Tandon and Budd Hall oversee the Knowledge for Change Mentor Training Programme (MTP) in Community-based research.  This programme offers learning opportunities for university and community knowledge workers to take a 21-week course in teaching Community Based Research, and has been operating for five years.