Multicultural programs across the State, including in Bundaberg, will share in almost $2 million to help break down barriers and create opportunities for culturally and linguistically diverse Queenslanders.
The Strengthening Multicultural Queensland grants are for projects aimed at fostering inclusion, boosting economic participation, creating opportunities for connection and supporting the positive engagement of young people within their communities.
Bundaberg Regional Council will receive a $58,000 grant to deliver a program that supports engagement and inclusiveness across diverse community groups.
Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the grants were designed to break down barriers to full social and economic participation across Queensland.
“Not only have these recipients’ demonstrated leadership in strengthening community cohesion, but also practical ways for people from varied cultural backgrounds to be actively involved in the Queensland economy and way of life,” Minister Simpson said.
“We celebrate the diversity that our multicultural communities bring, and these grants assist in promoting their rich heritage, while supporting their full participation as Queenslanders.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the program supported a vital part of the Burnett economy.
“Seasonal workers are an important part of our community and we want them to fully engage with our local community and not feel isolated,” Mr Bennett said.
“I’m pleased to see Council and various stakeholders coming together to deliver these practical activities to increase the participation of our vital interstate, intrastate and international workers”
Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Helen Blackburn welcomed the funding to support Council’s Connecting and Building Thriving Multicultural Communities project, which was first identified by local cultural leaders.
“Agriculture, and with it seasonal workers, are critical to our local economy however opportunities to create social connections and build relationships which support day-to-day life for these workers were lacking in our region,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“This program provides a range of activities which empower, educate and engage seasonal workers and connects them with essential services and businesses.
“With this funding Council can continue to coordinate events and provide them at low cost to encourage participation, create intercultural connections and promote inclusion and diversity within our community.”
The Strengthening Multicultural Queensland (SMQ) program consists of two categories – Empowering Multicultural Community and Youth and Community Connection, which includes 11 and 15 funded projects respectively.
To view the full list of projects and for more information visit:
www.tatsipca.qld.gov.au/smq-program
