The Andrews Labor Government is empowering young Aboriginal women in Shepparton by supporting a new youth mentoring program.
The Government is investing $120,000 in the Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative as part of its Empowered Women, Children and Families initiative helping Aboriginal women build networks.
Speaking at the Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative today, Minister for Youth Affairs Jenny Mikakos said the mentoring program will assist Aboriginal women between 15 and 25 years of age, focusing on young mums.
It will support women in decisions on financial education, healthy lifestyle choices, employment opportunities and housing options.
The funding is part of the Government’s $875,000 Aboriginal Youth Mentoring Program, that will see five Aboriginal organisations receive $120,000 for mentoring projects in their communities.
At least 10 Aboriginal young people in each community will receive mentoring over 12 months.
The Koorie Youth Council and the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria will support each Aboriginal-led organisation with resources and training for the youth mentoring program, which will be tailored to meet the needs of young Aboriginal people in different communities.
Ms Mikakos will also address young people at the Shepparton Youth Forum. The forum is one of 12 across the state, providing young people with a chance to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them.
Quote attributable to Minister for Youth Affairs Jenny Mikakos
“This is about giving young Aboriginal women the tools they need to build networks, set themselves up for the future, and reach their full potential.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"The Aboriginal Youth Mentoring Program is empowering Shepparton Aboriginal women with support to make positive decisions about their finances, lifestyle, housing and employment opportunities."
Reviewed 19 August 2020