Labor Member for Grayndler, Anthony Albanese, today announced three local organisations will receive over $1.3 million in funding to assist refugees and new migrants become self-reliant and settle in Sydney’s inner west.
A total of four projects from three local organisations will receive funding under the Federal Government’s Settlement Grants Program, which aims to help refugees and migrants become independent, acquire crucial skills and knowledge about life in Australia and contribute to the national economy.
The Lewisham-based Society of St Vincent de Paul will receive almost $1.2 million for projects to increase client independence, knowledge and ability to navigate and access mainstream services and promote participation and self-reliance; as well as encouraging newly arrived children and parents to understand curriculum and participate successfully in their school community.
The Indonesian Welfare Association in Marrickville is receiving $91,000 for a project which will deliver direct sessional services in high areas of settlement, but will also develop strategies to access Indonesian clients in other areas through telephone services and formal referral procedures with generalist mainstream agencies.
Ashfield Council is receiving $55,000 for a project which will provide volunteer training, development and coordination, and through the delivery of driver training and road safety awareness activities.
“The Gillard Labor Government recognises the important role community organisations play helping migrants and refugees settle as quickly as possible and build rewarding lives in Australia,” said Mr Albanese
"I am pleased that these local organisations will receive federal funding to provide practical assistance to help our newest community members."
Funding through the Settlement Grants Program is aimed to assist refugees, family sponsored migrants and the dependants of those on skilled migration visas with low levels of English.
A complete list of successful applicants in the 2011-12 funding round is available on the Department of Immigration website www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/delivering-assistance/settlement-grants