Media Release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP

$16 million investment in local communities

Joint Media Release with:

  • Jenny Macklin MP, Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs

  • Julie Collins MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services

The Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services, Julie Collins, today announced the Gillard Government will provide over $16 million to around 60 community projects across Australia to strengthen vulnerable communities and support disadvantaged Australians.

From 1 July 2011, community organisations funded under the Community Investment Program, will have their funding extended and increased to account for indexation, for three years to 30 June 2014.

Ms Collins said the move to three year funding contracts reflected the consultation between the Gillard Government and community organisations to provide on-going support.

“This is a great outcome for community organisations who can concentrate on supporting Australia families with the reassurance of on-going funding.

“The projects delivered through community organisations are developed in consultation with the local community to ensure community needs are met.”

The program funds a diverse range of projects such as community kitchens, homework clubs, volunteer training and leadership projects.

Visiting Drummond Street Services in metropolitan Melbourne today, Ms Collins said theCommunity Investment Program sought to build more cohesive and resilient communities.

The African Family Support Program delivered by Drummond Street Services trains African-Australian community leaders and mentors in promoting healthy living, education, safety and empowerment within their community in Carlton and North Melbourne.

“Drummond Street Services will receive more than $280,000 over three years to allow projects such as the African Family Support Program to continue the important work of improving life skills and self esteem for the African-Australian community,” Ms Collins said.

The Gillard Government values the enormous contribution that local organisations such as Drummond Street Services make in their communities.

The Community Investment Program has a strong focus on supporting vulnerable young people and their families.

A full list of the projects is available at: www.fahcsia.gov.au/sa/communities/progserv/community_investment