Premier

Support For A Multicultural Geelong

02 December 2016

The Andrews Labor Government is providing a $1.47 million boost to support diverse and disadvantaged communities in Geelong.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Robin Scott today joined Member for Lara John Eren and Member for Geelong Chris Couzens to announce the funding for local charity group, Diversitat, which works with newly settled migrants and refugees.

The funding recognises Geelong’s status as a premier multicultural city, and includes:

  • $920,000 over four years to develop positive social multicultural networks within the Barwon South West region
  • $150,000 over two years to empower Muslim women on issues like gender equity and family safety
  • $300,000 over three years to fund Geelong’s popular Pako Festa multicultural street festival
  • $100,000 over three years for the Hear Our Stories program.

Diversitat has been a mainstay of the local migrant community in Geelong for 40 years, providing vital services in areas such as immigration, welfare, aged and youth support, employment, arts and events.

Quotes attributable to Multicultural Affairs Minister Robin Scott

“Migrants bring enormous benefits to the city they choose to call home.”

“We want to ensure they find their feet quickly by helping them do things like look for a job or keep in touch with fellow migrants.”

Quotes attributable to the Member for Lara John Eren

“The Geelong region is home to a growing and diverse community.”

“Support for those settling in Victorian regions is crucial to giving them the best start to a new life.”

Quotes attributable to the Member for Geelong Chris Couzens

“This is about giving migrants and those from disadvantaged backgrounds a leg-up.”

“We want Victoria to maintain its reputation as the state that always puts people first.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

Was this page helpful?