- Published:
- Wednesday 28 September 2016
Central and Western Victoria are set to strengthen ties with multicultural and diverse communities with a funding boost announced by the Andrews Labor Government today.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Robin Scott and Member for Buninyong, Geoff Howard announced the funding at the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre to help strengthen the participation and inclusion of multicultural communities across regional Victoria.
As the lead agency in the Central Highlands and Wimmera EVOLVE Strategic Partnership, Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council (BRMC) was granted $920,000 over four years from the Capacity Building and Participation Grants program.
BRMC’s major partners in the project include Ballarat Community Health, Centre for Multicultural Youth, City of Ballarat and the Wimmera Development Association.
The partnership will see the BRMC work with culturally diverse groups, especially new migrants, asylum seekers and refugees in four key areas:
- Collaboration on shared regional infrastructure and resources
- Preferred regional migration destinations
- Engaged and thriving multicultural communities
- Work towards economic, social and multicultural capital.
Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre received $60,000 over two years for Kickstart, which offers coaching and support to break the cycle of unemployment and underemployment among the area’s multicultural residents.
Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott
“The Andrews Labor Government supports a thriving, diverse community. This funding will go a long way in strengthening ties with multicultural groups across the region and ensuring they have the support they need, when they need it.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong, Geoff Howard
“I’d like to commend BRMC for leading the development of this fantastic program. This funding will help them build on the great work they do supporting new arrivals to settle into our community and share their rich culture.”
“Kickstart will be particularly beneficial for community members with limited English skills, as it will help expand social connections and provide supported access to work experience.”