Getting Behind Aboriginal Communities

The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to help Aboriginal Victorians stay safe and recover from the pandemic.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams today announced an extra $1.6 million to be shared across 11 different Aboriginal organisations as part of the third round of the $10 million COVID-19 Aboriginal Community Response and Recovery Fund.

Throughout the pandemic, we’ve found that the best way of ensuring Aboriginal Victorians are supported is by empowering local organisations to lead culturally safe responses and solutions.

That’s why we established the Fund, which has now distributed more than $3 million to local groups since it was set up in July this year.

Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation – based in Healesville – will be able to redesign their current food security program so it’s COVID-safe and sustainable, while also helping with the cost of food and a volunteer coordinator.

VACCA will receive funding for three initiatives, including their Food Ladder program – which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to get certified training in cooking and food security – plus reading bags for families that need them and a community connection program.

Yoowinna Wurnalung Aboriginal Health Service will be able to run wellness events within the Lake Tyers and Lakes Entrance communities, like an Elders Christmas Lunch and school holiday activities.

Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation in Sale will involve the community to have a mural painted on the side of Morwell Medical Practice – Nindedana Quaranook, whose ownership was recently transferred back to the organisation.

Aboriginal Community Elders Service, Weenthunga Health Network Inc., Nairm Marr Djambana, Djirra, Phunktional Arts, Bubup Wilam Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Yappera Children’s Services Co-Operative Ltd will also be granted funds.

With almost $7 million still available, applications can be made at aboriginalvictoria.vic.gov.au/aboriginal-community-response-and-recovery-fund.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams

“Victoria’s Aboriginal communities hold the knowledge and expertise about what is best for themselves, their families and their communities – after what we’ve experienced this year, that knowledge is more critical than ever.”

“With the impacts of the pandemic to be felt for some time, this work means we can support Aboriginal Victorians to deliver the solutions they identify as the most effective in building even stronger communities.”