Funding to address racial intolerance and promote understanding
9 April 2009
The Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, today announced the opening of the Diverse Australia Program community grants round.
Mr Ferguson said more than $2 million in funding would be available for projects to address issues of racism and intolerance and encourage people to participate in Australia’s social and economic life.
'The funding will assist organisations to deliver projects that encourage people to participate in all aspects of Australian life by building bridges between people, regardless of religion or cultural background,’ Mr Ferguson said.
As a result of last year’s review of the Living in Harmony program, applications for community grants under the National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion, Harmony and Security will now be part of the Diverse Australia Program funding round, making the application process much easier for interested community organisations.
Mr Ferguson said after a successful pilot last year, small grants would also be part of this year’s funding round.
'Funding of between $5000 and $50 000 is available for major projects of up to 12 months’ duration,’ the parliamentary secretary said. 'Grants of up to $5000 are also available to help build the capacity of smaller organisations to implement community relations projects and manage government funding.
'Both sets of funding will provide the assistance often needed by community groups to develop their own ways of addressing racism and intolerance in their local community.
'If community organisations have an idea or concept for strengthening social cohesion, then the Australian Government wants to hear their proposals.’
Funding applications can be submitted by not-for-profit organisations such as school communities, service clubs, sporting bodies, ethnic communities, youth organisations, local government authorities, universities and colleges of education.
Applications must be lodged with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship by 6pm EST, 8 May 2009. For further information visit www.harmony.gov.au/funding (for guidelines and application forms) or contact the Diverse Australia Program funding hotline 1800 782 002.
Media contact: Carla Wilshire 0432 755 935
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2009/lf09020.htm
Last update: 09 April 2009 at 09:34 AEST