Premier

Supporting Communities To Tackle Ice

14 August 2017

Thirteen community groups will receive grants from the Andrews Labor Government to fight against ice and drug addiction in communities across the state.

Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley was joined by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards to announce the third round of Community Ice Action Grants, with the team at Sports Focus who are receiving funding to support local cricket clubs towards early detection of illicit drug use related issues and support players and families.

Bendigo Community Health Service, Sports Focus and the Victorian AIDS Council will also receive funding for programs in the Bendigo area – aimed at local cricket clubs, LGBTI communities and health and community services professionals, as well as the wider community.

The grants will engage and educate local communities across the state through initiatives such as workshops, forums, digital media content, and art projects.

Events like “Battle of the Bands” competitions, grassroots education programs for sporting teams, forums for Indigenous people and the creation of youth groups will enable community groups to reach those most at risk of dangerous drug use.

The grants are part of the third stage of the Labor Government’s $180 million Ice Action Plan.

More information about recipients can be found at www.ice.vic.gov.auExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley

“We know there is no single solution to stop ice. These grants will support community groups to come up with creative and engaging plans to educate people on the dangers of ice.”

“Every local community is different, and we’re proud to be supporting groups to rid their communities of ice through strategies that will work for their area.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan

“Local support is the key to beating ice, and groups around Bendigo are doing a fantastic job in our community.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“We’re taking action on ice in Bendigo, and supporting community groups to do their work at grassroots level is a huge step forward.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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