The Gillard Government is supporting community heritage across Australia through the Your Community Heritage program.

Sustainability Minister, Tony Burke, today called for applications under the 2012-13 Your Community Heritage grants program.

"The Your Community Heritage program is a new approach to protecting Australia's heritage," Mr Burke said.

"This program recognises that our heritage is about individual communities - in regional Australia, small towns or in multicultural communities, not just the 'big' heritage places such as those on the World Heritage List.

"The Your Community Heritage program provides funding to help protect and conserve Australia's nationally significant historic sites; assist in the recovery of historic heritage sites affected by recent natural disasters, honour eminent Australians who have made a significant contribution to our nation; assist communities to tell their heritage stories; and enhance community engagement in heritage through celebrations and events.

"I encourage any groups interested in the protection of our heritage to apply for funding."

Last year, 235 community groups, heritage organisations, historical societies, councils, and government bodies received support.

In 2012-13, Your Community Heritage is providing more than $7.4 million in funding to ensure the community's heritage is preserved, community heritage stories are told and eminent Australians are honoured. Funding of up to $500,000 is available for individual projects.

Applications close at 5pm AEDT Thursday 21 March 2013.

Further information about the 2012-13 Your Community Heritage grants program and application form is available at www.environment.gov.au/heritage/programs/ych.