Media Release by The Hon Julie Collins MP

Funds for 10 local projects to support vulnerable Australians

Australian Government funding for 10 community organisations will help them deliver a range of innovative, locally-driven projects to support disadvantaged Australians.

The Minister for Community Services, Julie Collins, today announced the funding of $715,240 under the Community Investment Program.

“The Community Investment Program has a strong focus on supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged people and building strong and cohesive communities,” Ms Collins said.

“The Australian Government values the enormous contribution that local organisations make in their communities.

“This round of funding will support a diverse range of community projects – including providing locally-grown produce for families in financial hardship, ongoing counselling for people affected by the 2009 Victorian bushfires and support for adult survivors of child abuse.”

A list of the ten recipients of the latest funding is attached.

“The Community Investment Program aims to strengthen local communities at a grassroots level by supporting not-for-profit organisations to deliver projects that strengthen vulnerable communities and support disadvantaged Australians,” Ms Collins said.

“These projects are developed in consultation with local organisations to ensure community needs are met.”

Projects to receive Community Investment Program funding:

State Organisation Name Project Name Funding Project Description
VIC Creativity Australia With One Voice $50,000 The With One Voice choirs promote social inclusion and a sense of belonging by bringing people from all walks of life together to sing and unlock their creative potential.
VIC EACH Outreach Counselling $194,240 Counselling for people affected by the 2009 Victorian bushfires.
VIC Parkinsons Victoria Painting with Parkinsons $20,000 Art therapy for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
VIC Gippsland Lakes Community Health Outreach Counselling $40,000 Counselling for people affected by the 2009 Victorian bushfires.
VIC Family Life Training $25,000 Provide training for other community organisations on implementing a community strengthening program.
NSW Adults Surviving Child Abuse Workshops $126,000 Support for adult survivors of child abuse.
NSW Heartfelt House Workshops $80,000 Support for adult survivors of child abuse.
QLD Centacare Toowoomba Whaddup Program $100,000 To support and engage with Indigenous youth in Toowoomba.
TAS Children’s Food Education Foundation Produce to the People $30,000 Locally-grown produce for families experiencing financial hardship.
WA Telethon Speech and Hearing Centre Resource Kit $50,000 A resource kit to help parents, caregivers and professionals better respond to the needs of young children with speech and language delays.
Total $715,240