The Morrison Government is investing more than $1.74 million to extend support for Indigenous programs across Corio, Corangamite and Bendigo electorates as part of the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said the funding will help organisations deliver successful early childhood, schooling, vocational education and training, and safety and wellbeing services for Indigenous Australians across the country.
“Our national investment includes $18.3 million for ‘away from base’ projects, providing access to a quality education for remote students and $19.5 million for early childhood initiatives, including pathways to pre-school and facilitated playgroups, so that Indigenous children are prepared and ready to start school.
“These projects will be predominantly delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with 70% of funded organisations Indigenous-owned, supporting the growth of sustainable Indigenous enterprise,” Mr Wyatt said.
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the funding will focus on supporting the education and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
“Our commitment to initiatives that help realise better outcomes for Indigenous Australians is unwavering – this funding will help deliver a raft of critical services, particularly to improve early life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children,” Senator Henderson said.
“I am delighted that the following projects have received funding:
- $1.59 million for Deakin University Geelong campus for the Away from Base project to support remote learning and indigenous higher education
- $74,000 for the Milla Milla Playgroup and Support Service Project managed by Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative Limited at North Geelong
- $120,000 for Bendigo Loddon Mallee Kindergartens managed by Bendigo And District Aboriginal Co-Operative at North Bendigo
Nationwide, key investments also include:
- $25 million to improve school attendance and provide youth engagement programs.
- $22.1 million for wellbeing, mentoring and alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services to provide happier and healthier environments for families.
- $5.8 million for crime prevention, violence reduction and support for victims.
20 October 2021