13 community groups will receive Community Ice Action Grants, to roll out local initiatives to fight against ice and drug addiction in communities across the state.
Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today announced Kirrae Health Service will receive $10,000 in funding towards the Koko Blokes project.
The Koko Blokes project targets Koori boys aged 8-17 from the Framlingham Aboriginal Community in a series of workshops, with a focus on positive role modelling, drug and alcohol use, domestic violence, isolation, acculturation, respect, traffic incidents, cyber safety and culture. The program challenges the participants to explore where these issues fit in with Aboriginal culture.
The project aims to deliver local initiatives to address drug use in the community.
Across the state, the grants will engage and educate local communities through initiatives such as workshops, forums, digital media content, and art projects.
Events such as “Battle of the Bands” competitions, grassroots education programs for sporting teams, forums for Indigenous people and the creation of youth groups will enable community groups to reach those most at risk of dangerous drug use.
The grants are part of the Andrews Labor Government’s third stage of its $180 million Ice Action Plan.
This year the Labor Government will invest a record $220.1 million in drug services, is providing a 68 per cent increase to rehabilitation beds – and lead the country when it comes to day rehabilitation.
More information about recipients can be found at www.ice.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP
“Too many lives are being ruined by ice – it’s a devastating drug, which is having tragic consequences for individuals, families and communities.”
“Local support is the key to beating ice, and supporting our local community groups to do their work at a grassroots level is a huge step forward.”
“We know there is no single solution to stop ice – and it is wonderful to see community groups come up with creative and engaging plans to educate people on the dangers of ice.”