Victorian Community Groups Benefit From Diversity Funding

Victorian Community Groups Benefit from Diversity Funding


Victorian community groups will receive more than $300 000 in funding under the Australian Government's Diverse Australia Program, the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, announced today in the lead up to Harmony Day on March 21.

"The Diverse Australia Program promotes a sense of belonging for everyone in a practical way delivering funding to groups and organisations that make a real difference to Australian communities," Mr Ferguson said.

"I am delighted that so many Victorian community organisations have applied for funding and that the projects they will undertake will create opportunities for all Australians to join in community activities.

"Creativity Australia will receive $50 000 for its Singing for sunshine project, in which people from West Africa, the Middle East, South-East Asia and the Pacific Islands will come together in a community choir.

"The Southern Ethnic Advisory and Advocacy Council will receive $50 000 to establish a cultural exchange program for young people in the suburb of Oakleigh. The program will allows young people to learn about other cultures, increasing cross-cultural contact and cooperation.

"The Stride Foundation has received $50 000 for its Mentoring through music project in Robinvale, in which music mentors will help young people to express themselves through the arts and music.

"These worthwhile projects will involve many of Victoria's young people in activities that build relationships, self-confidence and cross-cultural understanding, engendering a sense of belonging for all."

Full details of the successful 2009 Diverse Australia Program community grants projects and Harmony Day events can be found at www.harmony.gov.au

Media Contact Carla Wilshire 0432 755 935


SOURCE: Laurie Ferguson, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and
Settlement Services