The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Aboriginal communities in Victoria’s south west by boosting and investing in local infrastructure.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gavin Jennings and Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney have announced eight projects across the state that will share in more than $3 million as part of the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure program.
It includes $113,101 to Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative to redevelop their wholesale native plant nursery to deliver social welfare programs, training and education in culturally safe spaces.
The other projects include:
- $150,000 to Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation to upgrade and expand its Ballarat office
- A new early years’ centre in Bendigo North, with $855,075 going to the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative
- $638,000 for an all-weather outdoor space and exhibition centre for the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation
- New accommodation to attract GPs in Robinvale, with $350,000 going to the Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative
- $830,464 to Moogji Aboriginal Council East Gippsland Inc to refurbish their facilities
- $50,000 each to the First People of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation and Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place for feasibility studies on their future infrastructure needs.
This is the third year of the program, which has invested $11.8 million to Aboriginal organisations so they can create culturally safe spaces and strengthen services.
Improving Aboriginal community infrastructure is fundamental to the pursuit of self-determination and helps organisations have a strong social, cultural and economic base from which to build their future.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“This program is a great example of Aboriginal organisations determining how they want to see key community infrastructure develop and grow.”
“It is fantastic that Worn Gundidj has been successful in this funding round to redevelop their wholesale native plant nursery.”
“They are a vital part of the local community and this will ensure their contribution continues for years to come.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Gavin Jennings
“Every Aboriginal Victoria deserves a space they can call their own and where they can be with others in their community – these grants help provide that.”