More than 220 community organisations across Australia will receive a combined AUS$9.3 million funding boost to help new migrants fully participate in the Australian community.
The grants are part of the Government’s commitment to working closely with local organisations to provide valuable services and activities that foster social cohesion and create a stronger Australia.
The Fostering Integration Grants program provides up to AUS$50,000 to not-for-profit organisations to help migrants better integrate into Australian life, such as promoting employment and community participation.
The Government had initially announced AUS$5 million for the grants program in September last year. However, after reviewing the high calibre of applications from organisations working at the grassroots level to assist migrants, it has now boosted the funding to AUS$9.3 million.
This additional funding, which is part of the Government’s community funding package, has doubled the number of organisations that can be supported under the Fostering Integration Grants program.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman said the funding organisations receive through the expanded program will enhance the important work they do at the local level, recognising that safe communities are built on strong communities.
“Local community organisations have an important role to play in creating social cohesion and ensuring the unity, prosperity, and security of our nation,” Mr Coleman said. “The Fostering Integration Grants program is about supporting organisations that work at the grassroots level in their community and have a strong understanding of the challenges facing migrants.
“The grants will encourage economic and social integration and help migrants, particularly young people, women and those in regional areas access the workforce and participate more in the community,” Coleman added.
Article published 12th February 2019