Application increase a positive response
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
Response to the 2008-09 Community Relations and National Action Plan funding rounds has been overwhelming, the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, said today.
Applications for funding opened in April 2008 to incorporated, not-for-profit organisations.
Groups such as school communities, non-profit foundations, service clubs, sporting bodies, ethnic communities, youth organisations, local government authorities, universities and education providers have submitted proposals.
‘The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has received more than 1000 applications to date, compared to about 500 last year,’ Mr Ferguson said.
‘Given the response, the Community Relations small grants are now due to be announced in late August and the larger Community Relations and National Action Plan-funded projects in late October 2008.
‘I believe this positive response in the number of applications is due to the increased awareness of the benefits of cultural diversity in the community.
‘Cultural diversity gives vibrancy and dynamism to Australian life and is essential for the wellbeing of all Australians and our communities.
‘Through funding programs such as these, the Australian Government is continuing to promote respect, fairness, inclusion and a sense of belonging for everyone,’ the parliamentary secretary added.
Media Contact: Khaldoun Hajaj - 0404 078 692
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2008/lf08047.htm
Last update: 13 August 2008 at 17:14 AEST