Anthony Albanese MP, Federal Member for Grayndler, has drawn attention to the Federal Government’s Living in Harmony Grants.

Grants of between $5,000 and $50,000 are available to not-for-profit community organisations, schools and local government bodies to help promote national harmony.

Mr Albanese said, “These grants are a great opportunity for local organisations to realise projects that build respect and tolerance in our community.”

“We must always work towards a more understanding community, free of all forms of discrimination and violence. We cannot take harmony in our community for granted.”

Mr Albanese pointed to community groups such as ROAR (Residents Organised Against Racism) which are working to this end.

“In March, ROAR volunteers across the electorate helped raise awareness about Harmony Day and the need for tolerance and understanding in our community.”

The group, which was born in peaceful response to the Cronulla riots, saw more than 100 local residents meet to share a multicultural meal on the banks of the Cooks River earlier this year. Mr Albanese is one of the co-convenors of the group.

Mr Albanese continued, “Many schools and local organisations work for tolerance and cultural awareness by organising events and programmes throughout the year.”

“I would encourage all interested organisations to submit their proposals to the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs.”

The Department welcomes applications aimed at engaging the whole community, as well as those focusing in areas of:

• inter-faith and religious diversity


• new and emerging migrant communities 


• school and educational communities 


• Indigenous Australians.

Applications close on 25 August 2006, and must be lodged with the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs.

For more information visit www.harmony.gov.au or phone the Living in Harmony hotline, 1800 453 004.